LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION honoring Colonel Theodore Dobias upon the occa-
sion of celebrating 50 years of distinguished service to New York Mili-
tary Academy

WHEREAS, It is the practice of this Legislative Body to take note of and
publicly acknowledge individuals of remarkable integrity and character
whose endeavors have enhanced the quality of education in this great
State; and
WHEREAS, In addition, members and former 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, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-
standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor
Colonel Theodore Dobias upon the occasion of celebrating 50 years of
distinguished service to New York Military Academy; and
WHEREAS, Colonel Theodore Dobias has served for 50 years on the staff
of New York Military Academy; he was a Commandant, leader, role model,
coach and a highly decorated soldier in World War II; and
WHEREAS, As stated in THE SHIELD, the alumni publication of the New
York Military Academy, concerning Colonel Theodore Dobias, "No one in
the history of New York Military Academy has devoted his entire working
life to a singular cause: helping boys and girls develop into proud,
confident and ethical young men and women"; it further stated, "Colonel
Ted Dobias always tried to 'instill pride, spirit and brotherhood' in
the cadets under his charge"; and
WHEREAS, Donald Trump, an alumnus, Class of 1964, of the New York
Military Academy, wrote in his book THE ART OF THE DEAL, there was one
teacher in particular who had a big impact on him and that educator was
Colonel Theodore Dobias; and
WHEREAS, "Maj", short for Major, Colonel Theodore Dobias treated all
cadets the same, which often made those from privileged backgrounds
learn to be respectful of their fellow cadets and officers, and to
appreciate strength of character; and
WHEREAS, At age 17, while a student at New York Military Academy, with
World War II raging in Europe, Theodore Dobias enlisted into the United
States Army; his Division, the famed 10th Mountain Division, joined the
battle for Italy and fought all the way to Salzburg, Austria; and
WHEREAS, Colonel Theodore Dobias won many military decorations for his
service in World War II, including the Bronze Star with Oak Leaf Clus-
ter; and
WHEREAS, After returning to the United States from the war, Colonel
Theodore Dobias rejoined New York Military Academy; he was welcomed back
in a letter from the Academy's Superintendent who stated, "It is a
source of pride and joy to have you in the Corps of Cadets. Your leader-
ship through battle experience has made itself felt in our Corps of
Cadets"; and
WHEREAS, Upon his graduation from New York Military Academy in 1948,
the Academy offered Theodore Dobias the position of tactical officer for
E, F, and G companies; he also coached varsity baseball, JV football,
and girls' softball and basketball; and
WHEREAS, During his career at New York Military Academy, Colonel Theo-
dore Dobias progressed to the rank of Colonel, Assistant Commandant,
Commandant of Cadets and an Assistant to the Deputy Superintendent; and
WHEREAS, Colonel Theodore Dobias has continually demonstrated an
impressive dedication, an unparalleled devotion and an unremitting

enthusiasm for the quality of the educational programs and opportunities
offered at the New York Military Academy for the benefit of its faculty
and students, as well as for the entire community; 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 Colonel Theodore Dobias upon the occasion of celebrating 50 years
of distinguished service to New York Military Academy; and for his
distinguished military service to the Nation; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to Colonel Theodore Dobias.