Senate Resolution No. 1695

BY: Senator MARTINS

HONORING Derek Valance upon the occasion of his
designation as recipient of the Impact Award by the
Tribute and Honor Foundation on February 3, 2024

WHEREAS, Members of the United States Armed Forces, who served so
faithfully and courageously in wars in which our Nation's freedom was at
stake, as well as in the preservation of peace during peacetime, deserve
the highest commendation of this Legislative Body; and

WHEREAS, The dedication and sacrifices of our military personnel
ensure our continued role as a Nation which embodies the ideals of
democracy, and is a defender of liberty for peoples throughout the
world; and

WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to honor Derek
Valance upon the occasion of his designation as recipient of the Impact
Award by the Tribute and Honor Foundation, to be celebrated at its 3rd
Annual Phoenix Rising Awards ceremony on Saturday, February 3, 2024, at
Crescent Beach Club in Bayville, New York; and

WHEREAS, The Tribute and Honor Foundation exists to honor, pay
tribute, and celebrate our veterans and the veteran community, while
also seeking out opportunities to support our heroes and their families;
and

WHEREAS, The Impact Award recognizes the strong relationship that
exists between returning veterans and first responders; the Award is
presented to a veteran who has made a strong impact on the community
through his service in the military and as a first responder; and

WHEREAS, A lifelong resident of Glen Cove, New York and graduate of
Glen Cove High School, Derek Valance is a former Navy SEAL and is
currently serving as a police officer with the Glen Cove Police
Department; 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,
Derek Valance 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
honor Derek Valance upon the occasion of his designation as recipient of

the Impact Award by the Tribute and Honor Foundation on February 3,
2024; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Derek Valance.