Honor Immortal Regiment March

Senate Resolution No. 4960 BY: Senator SEPULVEDA COMMEMORATING the 4th Annual New York Immortal Regiment March organized by the Russian Youth of America on May 5, 2018, to observe heroism and honor the sacrifice of soldiers and citizens in World War II WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize that the quality and character of life in the communities across New York State are reflective of the concerned and dedicated efforts of those organizations and individuals who would devote themselves to the welfare of the community and its citizenry; and WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to commemorate the 4th Annual New York Immortal Regiment March organized by the Russian Youth of America on May 5, 2018, to observe heroism and honor the sacrifice of soldiers and citizens in World War II; and WHEREAS, The Immortal Regiment is an international event held annually before the Victory in Europe Day; people march with the portraits of their ancestors who fought in the World War II against the Nazi Germany and Axis Powers; and WHEREAS, This significant march, which first started in Russia in

1,000 participants; and WHEREAS, The victory in the World War II has been achieved through an immense struggle, personal bravery, sacrifice, and heroism of millions of soldiers and citizens of diverse nationalities; and WHEREAS, The victory and the sacrifice of these soldiers prevented the death and the strife for many more, and stopped the Holocaust; and WHEREAS, Over 400,000 American citizens died in the World War II; the Immortal Regiment March helps to commemorate their glory; and WHEREAS, The Immortal Regiment has a goal to preserve the memory that Americans, British, Soviets, Chinese and other countries of the Allied Powers fought together, defeated Nazism and won World War II; and WHEREAS, It is crucially important to pass on the legacy and the example of bravery, service, and self-sacrifice of these heroes to the younger generations, to create a personal connection between the citizens and their heroic ancestors, and to immortalize their stories; and WHEREAS, Better knowledge of the history and the role of those who participated in World War II against Nazi Germany can lead to more productive opportunities for future generations; and WHEREAS, A not-for-profit organization, the mission of Russian Youth of America is to enrich and preserve the cultural, spiritual and historical values of Russian heritage, and to create a solid foundation for its continuity; and WHEREAS, Russian Youth of America provides young people with an opportunity to contribute to the Russian community while developing the skills and abilities they need to become successful adults and engaged citizens of the United States of America; and WHEREAS, Russian Youth of America has organized many events in New York State, such as: Celebration of Victory in World War II, Russian Santa's Parade, Day of Family, Love and Faithfulness, to name a few; this vital organization has also been involved in social work, helping veterans, feeding homeless people, and visiting elderly people in hospitals; and WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that when organizations and events of such noble aims and accomplishments are brought to our attention, they should be celebrated and recognized by all the citizens of this great Empire State; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to commemorate the 4th Annual New York Immortal Regiment March organized by the Russian Youth of America on May 5, 2018, to observe heroism and honor the sacrifice of soldiers and citizens in World War II; and be it further RESOLVED, That copies of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to The Honorable Andrew M. Cuomo, Governor of the State of New York; The Honorable Anatoly I. Antonov, Ambassador of the Russian Federation to the United States; The Honorable Sergey K. Ovsyannikov, Consul General of the Russian Federation in New York; and Igor Kochan, President of Russian Youth of America.