What's happening
This resolution posthumously honors Robert E. Barss with the New York State Senate Liberty Medal for his exceptional military service.
Why it matters
Highlights the significance of individual military contributions. By detailing Robert E. Barss’s specific service during World War II—including his role in the defense of Normandy and use of searchlights to protect lives—the resolution underscores how individual actions can impact major historical events and civilian safety.
Reinforces the importance of community involvement after military service. The resolution notes Barss’s postwar life, including his work, family, and leadership in 4-H, serving as a reminder that veterans often continue to enrich their communities long after their military service ends.
Sets a precedent for public recognition of veterans. Honoring Barss with the Liberty Medal and a formal Senate resolution helps establish the value of recognizing veterans not just for their military achievements but also for their lifelong contributions, encouraging ongoing remembrance and respect.
Affirms the broader societal obligation to honor service and sacrifice. The resolution frames the act of recognition as a collective duty, emphasizing that acknowledging veterans’ sacrifices is essential for maintaining a sense of gratitude, history, and civic responsibility among New Yorkers.
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Headline styles
Honor Barss With Liberty Medal
Plain English, a few words. Used as the page title.
Sponsors
No co-sponsors yet.
History
- Adopted
- Reported to calendar for consideration
- Referred to finance
Full text
1 pageUnderlined is new[Struck] is removedOfficial text on nysenate.gov ↗
Senate Resolution No. 682 BY: Senator JORDAN COMMENDING Robert E. Barss posthumously upon the occasion of his designation as recipient of a Liberty Medal, the highest honor bestowed upon an individual by the New York State Senate WHEREAS, Members of the Armed… Show allHide
Senate Resolution No. 682 BY: Senator JORDAN COMMENDING Robert E. Barss posthumously upon the occasion of his designation as recipient of a Liberty Medal, the highest honor bestowed upon an individual by the New York State Senate 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 from this Legislative Body; and WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to commend Robert E. Barss posthumously upon the occasion of his designation as recipient of a Liberty Medal, the highest honor bestowed upon an individual by the New York State Senate, to be presented at the Saratoga County Honor A Deceased Veteran Ceremony on Tuesday, March 19, 2019; and WHEREAS, The New York State Senate Liberty Medal was established by Resolution and is awarded to individuals who have merited special commendation for exceptional, heroic, or humanitarian acts on behalf of their fellow New Yorkers; and WHEREAS, Robert E. Barss was born on December 20, 1922, at his home in Greenfield Center to Charles and Carrie Barss; one of eight children, he graduated from Saratoga Springs High School; and WHEREAS, Robert E. Barss entered into the United States Army on
January 16, 1943; he served with the 225th AAA Searchlight Battalion, better known as the "Skylighters" as a Radio Operator; and WHEREAS, Just before January 1, 1944, Robert E. Barss arrived in England and became part of the antiaircraft defense; in June of that same year, the Skylighters landed on Omaha Beach and formed part of the defense of Normandy; from there, they were attached to the 9th Air Forces' 422nd and 425th Night Fighter Squadrons where they had a role in downing over 36 enemy planes and V-1 Buzz bombs; and WHEREAS, The battalions 36 GE Searchlights were used to put up over
4,000 light canopies that saved countless planes, as well as saving countless civilian lives by deflecting enemy planes by blinding them with their lights; and WHEREAS, Following the surrender of Japan, the Unit was disbanded in December of 1945; Robert E.… Show allHide
4,000 light canopies that saved countless planes, as well as saving countless civilian lives by deflecting enemy planes by blinding them with their lights; and WHEREAS, Following the surrender of Japan, the Unit was disbanded in December of 1945; Robert E. Barss was discharged on December 16, 1945, with the rank of T-5, having served in Central Europe, Normandy, Northern France and Rhineland; and WHEREAS, For his courageous service during the World War II, Robert E. Barss was awarded the European-African-Middle Eastern Service Medal, the Good Conduct Medal, and the WWII Victory Medal; and WHEREAS, Upon the completion of his military service, Robert E. Barss married the former Ruth Nowhitney on June 23, 1951, and together they had seven children; and WHEREAS, An avid outdoorsman, Robert E. Barss loved sharing his skills and the love of nature with his children and grandchildren; for many years, he served as a 4-H Club Leader; and WHEREAS, Robert E. Barss worked in manufacturing and retired from the Cottrell Paper Company; he was also the caretaker of the North Milton Cemetery; and WHEREAS, Robert E. Barss died on September 24, 2015, at the age of
92; 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… Show allHide
92; 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 his patriotism both at home and abroad, Robert E. Barss 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 Robert E. Barss posthumously upon the occasion of his designation as recipient of a Liberty Medal, the highest honor bestowed upon an individual by the New York State Senate; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to the family of Robert E. Barss.
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