Tribute to Sergeant Shawn Farrell II Passes Senate

ALBANY, 06/20/14 – The New York State Senate has passed legislation renaming a portion of New York State Route 44/55 in Ulster County  in honor of United States Army Sergeant Shawn Michael Farrell II.  The bill (S.7824) sponsored by Senator James L. Seward pays tribute to the young soldier killed on April 28th in Afghanistan. 

“Every man and woman who dons a United States military uniform sacrifices for our nation and our way of life,” said Senator Seward.  “Sergeant Farrell made the ultimate sacrifice and we owe it to him and his family to keep his memory alive.” 

Sgt. Shawn M. Farrell II, 24, of Accord, New York, died April 28, in Nejrab District, Kapisa province, Afghanistan, of wounds sustained when enemy forces attacked his unit with small arms fire.  He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 32nd Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division (Light), Fort Drum, New York.

Senator Seward’s bill designates the portion of New York State Route 44/55 from the intersection of New York State Route 209 in Wawarsing to the intersection of New York State Route 299 in Gardiner as the “Sergeant Shawn Farrell II Memorial Highway”.

“Memorial highways, parks, and other landmarks serve as fitting tributes to the men and women who have served and sacrificed for our freedoms.  Each time we see a veteran’s name on a sign, we should think of that individual’s valor and say thank you.  Sergeant Farrell II served with bravery, courage, and unwavering allegiance to his country and his fellow soldiers and is highly deserving of this special tribute,” Seward added.

Senator Seward posthumously awarded Sergeant Farrell with the state senate’s Liberty Medal, the highest honor bestowed by the New York State Senate, in recognition of his sacrifice and service to his country.  Senator Seward also sponsored a special senate resolution (J.4858) in tribute to Sergeant Farrell.

Companion legislation (A.10084) sponsored by Assemblyman Cahill has been introduced in the state assembly.

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