Senate Resolution No. 2240

BY: Senator BRESLIN

COMMENDING Gregory M. Woodward posthumously upon the occasion of his designation for special recognition by Albany County at its Honor a Veteran Ceremony on November 4, 2019

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; and

WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to commend Gregory M. Woodward posthumously upon the occasion of his designation for special recognition by Albany County at its Honor a Veteran Ceremony on Monday, November 4, 2019, at the American Legion Zaloga Post No. 1520, Albany, New York; and

WHEREAS, In June of 1993, a committee was formed by the Albany County Veterans Bureau, known as the Albany County Honor a Veteran Committee, created to honor a deceased Albany County veteran who served his country in time of conflict; the Honor a Veteran Program takes place on the first Monday of each month; and

WHEREAS, Born on June 24, 1971, in Albany, New York, Gregory M. Woodward enlisted in the United States Marine Corps on August 23, 1989; and

WHEREAS, During his military career, Gregory M. Woodward proudly served his country as a Landing Support Specialist with the 1st Landing Support Battalion stationed at Camp Pendleton, California; furthermore, he valiantly fought in Operation Restore Hope in Somalia; and

WHEREAS, For his courageous service, Gregory M. Woodward was awarded the Navy Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, Joint Meritorious Unit Commendation, Meritorious Unit Commendation and Expert Rifle Badge; and

WHEREAS, Upon the completion of his military service on August 22, 1993, Gregory M. Woodward owned and operated Egan & Woodward Asphalt in Loudonville, New York for many years; and

WHEREAS, With a steadfast and unwavering commitment to his community, Gregory M. Woodward was a Colonie Pop Warner Coach and Colonie High School Assistant Coach; he also played semi-professional football for the Metro Mallers; and

WHEREAS, Gregory M. Woodward died on January 27, 2016, at the age of 44; 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, Gregory M. Woodward 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 Gregory M. Woodward posthumously upon the occasion of his designation for special recognition by Albany County at its Honor a Veteran Ceremony on November 4, 2019; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to the family of Gregory M. Woodward.