Felder Pays Tribute to Military Personnel at West Point Day in Albany

Senator Simcha Felder (D-Brooklyn) recently welcomed and paid tribute to men and women from the United States Military Academy at West Point at a reception on April 24, 2013 as part of the 61st Annual “West Point Day” held at the New York State Capitol in Albany.

The event was hosted by Senator Bill Larkin (R-C, Cornwall-on-Hudson), a retired Lieutenant Colonel who served 23 years on active duty in the United States Army. Both the Senate and the Assembly adopted Legislative Resolutions to commemorate the Academy’s visit and to honor the establishment of the United States Military Academy at West Point.

“History has taught us time and again that freedom is not free,” said Senator Felder. “It is incumbent upon all of us who love this great nation to show our immense gratitude to the men and women who serve our country at tremendous personal sacrifice so that we may live peacefully.”

An estimated 1200 New Cadets enter the Academy each year. Currently, there are 4,400 Cadets enrolled at West Point from every state in the U.S., as well as from several foreign countries. After graduation, Cadets are deployed throughout the world and serve on active duty for at least five years.

“West Point is truly a unique institution and one that produces the best of the best,” said Senator Larkin. “The men and women who attend the Academy are proven leaders who have excelled at academics and have demonstrated their abilities under pressure.”

Senators Felder and Larkin met with many of the Cadets, as well as with Brigadier General Timothy Trainor, the Dean of the Academic Board at the Academy.

“It was so gratifying to meet these real-life heroes,” Senator Felder said. “I pray that the Almighty blesses and protects our Armed Forces wherever they may serve.”