Honor Veteran John F. O'Donnell

April 2, 2018 WHEREAS, Members of the Armed Services from the State of New York, who have served so valiantly and honorably in wars in which this country's freedom was at stake, as well as in the preservation of peace in peace-time, deserve a special salute; and WHEREAS, It is the intent of this Legislative Body to commend those who have served in times of active conflict, as well as those who have served in times of peace; and WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor John F. O'Donnell posthumously upon the occasion of his designation for special recognition by Albany County at its Honor A Veteran Ceremony on Monday, April 2, 2018, at the American Legion Joseph E. Zaloga Post No.

1520 in Albany, New York; and WHEREAS, In June of 1993, a committee was formed by the Albany County Veterans Bureau known as the Albany County Honor A Veteran Committee; the committee was formed to honor a deceased Albany County veteran who has served his country in time of conflict; the Honor A Veteran Program takes place monthly on the first Monday of each month; and WHEREAS, For his courageous and dedicated service to his country, John F. O'Donnell will be recognized posthumously at this year's April Honor A Veteran Ceremony; and WHEREAS, John F. O'Donnell was born on March 8, 1921, in Albany, New York; and WHEREAS, From 1942-1946, John F. O'Donnell proudly served his country as a member of the United States Army during World War II; he was assigned to Bravo Company 791st Military Police Battalion where he held the rank of Sergeant (SGT/E5); and WHEREAS, For his bravery, this courageous soldier was awarded the American Theater Ribbon, the Army Good Conduct Medal, and the World War II Victory Medal; and WHEREAS, Upon the completion of his military service, John F. O'Donnell returned to the Capital District where he worked as a City of Albany Firefighter for Ladder No. 1 on Westerlo Street; and WHEREAS, John F. O'Donnell died on December 13, 1966, in Albany, New York, at the age of 45; and WHEREAS, Residents of this great State must never forget the courage with which these men and women served their country, and must recognize that no greater debt is owed than that owed to those who gave their lives for their beloved Nation and to those who continue to be missing in action; and WHEREAS, Having exhibited their patriotism both at home and abroad, these men and women demonstrated their love for their country and merit forevermore the highest respect of their State and Nation; and WHEREAS, Our Nation's veterans deserve to be recognized, commended and thanked by the people of the State of New York for their service and for their dedication to their communities, their State and their Nation; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to commend John F. O'Donnell posthumously upon the occasion of his designation for special recognition by Albany County at its Honor A Veteran Ceremony on April 2, 2018; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to the family of John F. O'Donnell.