Senate Resolution No. 1092

BY: Senator OBERACKER

HONORING Deputy Mark Hamilton and Detective Matt
Barcak in recognition of their prompt and heroic
actions in saving the lives of two individuals after
their vehicle crashed and landed in the Chenango
River

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize and
honor those distinguished officers and citizens who would devote
themselves to public service, demonstrating great courage and diligence
in providing for the care and welfare of the citizens of their
communities and this great Empire State; and

WHEREAS, Within every community of the State of New York there are
certain individuals who, by virtue of their commitment and dedication,
command the respect and admiration of their community for their
exemplary contributions and service on behalf of others; and

WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to honor Deputy Mark
Hamilton and Detective Matt Barcak in recognition of their prompt and
heroic actions in saving the lives of two individuals after their
vehicle crashed and landed in the Chenango River; and

WHEREAS, On the morning of May 5, 2023, Broome County Sheriff's
Deputy Mark Hamilton and Detective Matt Barcak responded to reports of a
vehicle in the Chenango River off Interstate Route 88; community members
near the accident reported a male and female on the roof of their
vehicle as the high and swift current carried it down river; and

WHEREAS, The driver and passenger of the vehicle were able to escape
the sinking vehicle and climb onto the roof; as the vehicle completely
submerged, both attempted to swim to shore; the passenger of the vehicle
was able to make it to shore, while the other was swept further down the
river; and

WHEREAS, Deputy Mark Hamilton spotted the driver of the vehicle and
immediately acted with unquestionable bravery, jumping into the high and
swift currents of the river to successfully bring the citizen back to
shore; and

WHEREAS, Responding quickly under pressure, Deputy Mark Hamilton
along with Detective Matt Barcak immediately began CPR on the victim and
continued until EMS arrived, saving the young man's life; and

WHEREAS, Through their heroic actions, Deputy Mark Hamilton and
Detective Matt Barcak demonstrated their character and compassion for
the welfare of others, personifying the collective concern of public
servants across the community of the State of New York who respond when
others are in need of help; and

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that those
extraordinary individuals who unselfishly devote their lives to the
preservation of order and the protection of others are worthy and due

full praise for their commitment and noble endeavors; now, therefore, be
it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Broome County Sheriff's Deputy Mark Hamilton and Detective Matt
Barcak in recognition of their heroic actions on May 5, 2023, noting the
significance of their selfless contributions which are in keeping with
the highest traditions of the Broome County Sheriff's Department; and be
it further

RESOLVED, That copies of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Broome County Sheriff's Deputy Mark Hamilton and
Detective Matt Barcak.