Honor Correction Officer Brice

Senate Resolution No. 2873 BY: Senator ORTT COMMENDING Correction Officer Tommy Brice upon the occasion of his designation as recipient of a Liberty Medal, the highest honor bestowed upon an individual by the New York State Senate WHEREAS, It is incumbent upon the people of the State of New York to recognize and acknowledge those within our midst who have made significant contributions to the quality of life therein; and WHEREAS, From time to time this Legislative Body takes note of certain extraordinary individuals it wishes to recognize for their valued contributions to the success and progress of society and publicly acknowledge their endeavors which have enhanced the basic humanity among us all; and WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to commend Correction Officer Tommy Brice upon the occasion of his designation as recipient of a Liberty Medal, the highest honor bestowed upon an individual by the New York State Senate; and WHEREAS, The New York State Senate Liberty Medal was established by Resolution and is awarded to individuals who have merited special commendation for exceptional, heroic, or humanitarian acts on behalf of their fellow New Yorkers; and WHEREAS, On May 16, 2016, Orleans Correction Officer Tommy Brice, took decisive action that by all indications saved the life of a 16-year old girl; and WHEREAS, Correction Officer Tommy Brice was on his way home from work when he witnessed a young girl walking down the street with an older male following closely behind; the girl looked uncomfortable and attempted to walk faster while trying to get away from the male who was now in front of her; and WHEREAS, During this time, Correction Officer Tommy Brice made the decision to intervene and immediately drove to the scene and asked the girl if something was wrong; when she began to cry he knew something was not right and without hesitation called the police; and WHEREAS, Correction Officer Tommy Brice then followed the male who went back to his room at a local motel and stayed there until the police arrived; when the police entered the man's room, he told them it was his intention to abduct the young girl and four knives lined the bed; and WHEREAS, Thanks to the quick thinking, training and decisive actions of Correction Officer Tommy Brice, an innocent young girl was saved; and WHEREAS, Correction Officer Tommy Brice should be regarded as a true hero; he has continually devoted himself to public service, demonstrating great courage and diligence in providing for the care and welfare of the citizens of this great Empire State; and WHEREAS, Praised for maintaining his composure and his professional conduct, Correction Officer Tommy Brice demonstrated his true character and genuine compassion for the welfare of others; and WHEREAS, Within every community of the State of New York there are certain individuals who, by virtue of their commitment and dedication, command the respect and admiration of their community for their exemplary contributions and service on behalf of others; Correction Officer Tommy Brice is one such individual; and WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body that those dedicated public servants who unselfishly devote their lives to the preservation of order and the protection of others are worthy and due full praise for their commitment and noble endeavors; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to commend Correction Officer Tommy Brice upon the occasion of his designation as recipient of a Liberty Medal, the highest honor bestowed upon an individual by the New York State Senate; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to Correction Officer Tommy Brice.