Honor Veteran Patients Week

Senate Resolution No. 391 BY: Senator HARCKHAM MEMORIALIZING Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim February 10-16, 2019, as Salute to Veteran Patients Week in the State of New York 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 from this Legislative Body; 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, This Legislative Body is justly proud to memorialize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim February 10-16, 2019, as Salute to Veteran Patients Week in the State of New York, in conjunction with the observance of National Salute to Veterans Patients Week; and WHEREAS, Celebrated each year during the week of Valentine's Day, the National Salute to Veteran Patients Program pays tribute and expresses appreciation to veterans, increases community awareness of the role of the Veterans Affairs (VA) medical center, and encourages citizens to visit hospitalized veterans to express their affection and respect; and WHEREAS, This special week gives the citizens of the United States an opportunity to say thank you to a special group of men and women, more than 98,000 Veterans of the United States armed services who are cared for every day in VA medical centers, outpatient clinics, domiciliaries, and nursing homes; and WHEREAS, During the National Salute, the Department of VA invites individuals, veterans groups, military personnel, civic organizations, businesses, schools, local media, celebrities and sports stars to participate in a variety of activities at the VA medical centers; some of these special events include ward visits, valentine distributions, photo opportunities, school essay contests, special recreation activities and veteran recognition programs; and WHEREAS, The week also provides an opportunity for the community to become acquainted with the volunteer opportunities within the medical center; and WHEREAS, Each and every American citizen is privileged to live in a nation which has a special place in its hearts for these defenders of freedom; 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 memorialize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim February 10-16, 2019, as Salute to Veteran Patients Week in the State of New York; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to The Honorable Andrew M. Cuomo, Governor of the State of New York.