Honor Rensselaer Veteran Posthumously

Senate Resolution No. 3261 BY: Senator BRESLIN COMMENDING John Russell Reitano posthumously upon the occasion of his designation for special recognition by Rensselaer County at its Honor a Deceased Veteran Ceremony on August 10, 2020 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 peacetime, deserve a special salute; and WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to commend John Russell Reitano posthumously upon the occasion of his designation for special recognition by Rensselaer County at its Honor a Deceased Veteran Ceremony on Monday, August 10, 2020; and WHEREAS, John Russell Reitano was born on February 6, 1926, to the late Anthony and Mary (Marvelli) Reitano in Troy, New York, where he attended St. Peter's School, Troy High School, and Troy Business School; and WHEREAS, On November 2, 1943, John Russell Reitano enlisted in the United States Army and proudly served his country as a gunners mate with Aviation, Construction, Ordinance, Repair Navy (ACORN 45) during World War II; during the liberation of the Philippine Islands, he secured, repaired and provided fire cover for Sea Bees rebuilding the landing strip at Sangly Point; and WHEREAS, For his courageous service during the Second World War, John Russell Reitano was awarded the American Theater Medal, WWII Victory Medal, Philippine Liberation Ribbon, and Asiatic Pacific Medal; and WHEREAS, Upon the completion of his military service on May 7, 1946, John Russell Reitano returned to New York and married the former Dorothy Berlingieri at the Church of the Feast of the Assumption in Mechanicville; together, they raised two children, John (Frances) and Paul (Peggy); and WHEREAS, John Russell Reitano worked at Wooltex, and as a Produce Specialist for Golub Corporation-Central Markets and Price Chopper, and Shop Rite; after his much deserved retirement, he enjoyed his job as a greeter for the Walmart in Halfmoon, New York; and WHEREAS, Devoted to both his fellow veterans and community, John Russell Reitano was a member of the Italian Fraternal Hall and Veterans of Lansingburgh, Past Commander VFW Post 6928, and served on the Family Day in the Park committee; and WHEREAS, A talented musician, John Russell Reitano played the bass and drums and was the band leader of the Dixieland Ambassadors and the Johnny Rei Trio; he also liked to paint, bowl, golf and play softball; and WHEREAS, Above all, John Russell Reitano loved spending time with his beloved family, especially his three grandchildren, Kate (Chris), Justin (Nicole), and Nicholas (Ashely); and great-grandchild, Liam; and WHEREAS, John Russell Reitano died on March 21, 2005, at the age of

79; he was buried with military honors in St. Paul's Cemetery in Mechanicville; and WHEREAS, Having exhibited his patriotism both at home and abroad, John Russell Reitano demonstrated his love for his country and merits forevermore, the highest respect of his 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 Russell Reitano posthumously upon the occasion of his designation for special recognition by Rensselaer County at its Honor a Deceased Veteran Ceremony on August 10, 2020; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to the family of John Russell Reitano.