Honor Gwen Fitzgerald Award

Senate Resolution No. 648 BY: Senator JACOBS HONORING Gwen Fitzgerald upon the occasion of her designation as recipient of the Legion of Honor Award by the VA Western New York Healthcare System 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 honor Gwen Fitzgerald upon the occasion of her designation as recipient of the Legion of Honor Award by the VA Western New York Healthcare System, to be celebrated at its Four Chaplains Ceremony on Wednesday, February 15,

2017, in Buffalo, New York; and WHEREAS, This auspicious award recognizes outstanding members of society whose lives model the giving spirit and unconditional service to community, nation, and humanity without regard to race, religion or creed exemplified so dramatically by the Four Chaplains who lost their lives aboard the USAT Dorchester in 1943; Gwen Fitzgerald is one such individual; and WHEREAS, Individuals who give of their time and energies and serve in the best interest of their communities are an asset beyond remuneration and cannot be sufficiently extolled; and WHEREAS, A resident of Williamsville, New York, Gwen Fitzgerald has been called upon to contribute her time and talents to countless civic and charitable endeavors and has always given of herself unstintingly; and WHEREAS, Throughout the entire period of her community service, a period of constructive involvement, Gwen Fitzgerald has stood constant in dignity, good grace and humor; and WHEREAS, Within every community, there are inevitably some individuals who, by virtue of their energy, vision, and dedication, command the greatest respect among their friends and colleagues, and within the community at large; and WHEREAS, Rare indeed is the impressive dedication shown by an individual for the benefit of others which Gwen Fitzgerald has displayed throughout her life; and WHEREAS, It has always been the objective of this Legislative Body to honor and support those individuals who have displayed their commitment to the betterment of their communities, and it is the intent of this Legislative Body to inscribe upon its records, this tribute to Gwen Fitzgerald, that future generations may know and appreciate her admirable character, her many benevolent deeds, and the respect and esteem in which she is held by her peers; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to honor Gwen Fitzgerald upon the occasion of her designation as recipient of the Legion of Honor Award by the VA Western New York Healthcare System; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to Gwen Fitzgerald.