LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION honoring Patrick F. Buckley posthumously upon the
occasion of his designation for special recognition by Rensselaer County
at its Honor-A-Deceased Veteran Ceremony on May 11, 2015

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, It is the intent of this Legislative Body to commend those
who have served in times of active conflict, as well as those who have
served in times of peace; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-
standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor
Patrick F. Buckley posthumously upon the occasion of his designation for
special recognition by Rensselaer County at its Honor-A-Deceased Veteran
Ceremony on May 11, 2015; and
WHEREAS, The son of Irish immigrants, Patrick F. Buckley was born on
March 12, 1930, in Troy, New York; and
WHEREAS, Having a lifetime love for sports and adventure, Patrick F.
Buckley excelled in basketball and baseball, and received a basketball
scholarship to St. Bonaventure University; and
WHEREAS, After completing his freshman year, Patrick F. Buckley proud-
ly served his country as a member of the United States Army during the
Korean War; he served as a combat infantryman with the Second Infantry
Division; and
WHEREAS, During his military service, Patrick F. Buckley was a member
of a unique two hundred man company, consisting of one hundred Americans
and one hundred South Korean soldiers; rising through the ranks, he held
the esteemed rank of Sergeant; and
WHEREAS, Patrick F. Buckley was the recipient of numerous awards and
accolades for his exceptional military service including the Combat
Infantryman's Badge, two Bronze Stars for bravery in a combat zone and
meritorious service, and the Republic of Korea Commendation Medal; and
WHEREAS, Upon completing his military service, Patrick F. Buckley
studied at the State University of New York at New Paltz where he earned
his Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education; furthering his education,
he earned his Master's degree in School Administration at the State
University of New York at Albany; and
WHEREAS, After four years as an Elementary School Teacher in the South
Colonie School District, Patrick F. Buckley received a teaching position
with the Department of Defense school system in Europe, where he taught
for six years in France; and
WHEREAS, In 1967, Patrick F. Buckley accepted an Elementary Adminis-
tration position in Heidelberg, Germany; for 29 years, he was an Elemen-
tary School Principal in various American Defense Department Schools in
Germany; and
WHEREAS, During his time in Germany, Patrick F. Buckley completed the
BOLD program in Berchtesgaden; an organizer and strong supporter of
outdoor education programs for fifth and sixth grade students, he organ-
ized and participated in ski/school weeks, backpacking trips, and youth
hostel trips to various areas of Germany and Austria; and
WHEREAS, After 35 years of dedicated service with the Department of
Defense, Patrick F. Buckley retired in 1996; he and his wife, Inge,
relocated to Boulder, Colorado, where together, they enjoyed hiking; and
WHEREAS, Active in his community, Patrick F. Buckley was a member of
the Boulder Seniors on Bikes, AARP, and NARFE; he enjoyed mountaineering

and biking extensively in France, Germany, and Austria, and downhill
skiing; and
WHEREAS, Patrick F. Buckley died on January 28, 2015; predeceased by
his brother, Martin, Patrick F. Buckley is survived by his wife of 47
years, Inge, and their son, Christopher; his grandchildren, Aidan and
Lily; nieces, Theresa and Kathy; and his nephew, Michael; as well as
numerous cousins; and
WHEREAS, Having exhibited his patriotism both at home and abroad,
Patrick F. Buckley demonstrated his love for his country and merits
forevermore, the highest respect of their 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 Patrick F. Buckley posthumously upon the occasion of his desig-
nation for special recognition by Rensselaer County at its Honor-A-De-
ceased Veteran Ceremony on May 11, 2015; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to the family of Patrick F. Buckley.