Honor Norwich Legion Centennial

Senate Resolution No. 524 BY: Senator AKSHAR COMMEMORATING the 100th Anniversary of the Norwich American Legion Post No. 189 on March 9, 2019 WHEREAS, It is the sense 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 100th Anniversary of the Norwich American Legion Post No. 189 to be celebrated with a dinner on Saturday, March 9, 2019; and WHEREAS, This American Legion Centennial Celebration is not only about honoring the past 100 years of its history, but also preparing to continue its legacy of service to Veterans and their families; events and activities at posts around the world will showcase The American Legion "Still Serving America"; and WHEREAS, The American Legion was chartered by Congress in 1919, as a patriotic veteran's organization; and WHEREAS, Focusing on service to veterans, service members and communities, the American Legion evolved from a group of war-weary veterans of World War I into one of the most influential nonprofit groups in the United States; and WHEREAS, Over the years, the American Legion has influenced considerable social change in America, won hundreds of benefits for veterans and produced many important programs for children and youth; membership currently stands at over 2.4 million in 14,000 posts worldwide; and WHEREAS, The Norwich American Legion Post No. 189 is the leading advocate for veterans, a strong national defense, patriotic youth programs and Americanism; and WHEREAS, Throughout its history, 33 World War I veterans served as Commander; two members, husband and wife, veterans of World War I held the title of Commander, as did their son, a World War II veteran; the last World War I veteran died in 2002; and WHEREAS, Under the luminous leadership of Commander Willard W. Griffin, the success of the Norwich American Legion Post No. 189 is in direct correlation to the efforts of its members and volunteers, whose involvement is, and always has been, characterized by an impressive commitment, an unbridled enthusiasm, and an uncompromising standard of excellence in all endeavors on behalf of the organization and the community it serves; and WHEREAS, Today, the Norwich American Legion Post No. 189 continues its dedication to fostering the traditions of patriotism, excellence, and commitment which have made our nation strong; it is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize the significance of their contributions and to note their worthy endeavors which have earned the recognition and applause of all the citizens of this great Empire State; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to commemorate the 100th Anniversary of the Norwich American Legion Post No. 189 on March 1, 2019; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to Willard W. Griffin, Commander, the Norwich American Legion Post No. 189.