For generations, great men and women have answered our nation’s call, put on uniforms, and served to protect and advance the cause of freedom and democracy around the world.

Our nation’s veterans have earned our gratitude and respect, and once again, I’m recognizing the service of our veterans by seeking a nominee from my senate district to be inducted to the New York State Senate Veterans’ Hall of Fame.

This on-line hall of fame is designed to pay tribute to New Yorkers whose gallantry in the United States Armed Forces is complemented by their service to the community. The hall of fame pays tribute to those whose sacrifices and service have helped make our nation and our community better places to live.

The New York State Senate Veterans’ Hall of Fame was created to honor and recognize outstanding veterans from the Empire State who have distinguished themselves both in military and civilian life. Their meritorious service to our nation deserves the special recognition that only a hall of fame can provide, as a fitting expression of our gratitude and admiration.

The senate will honor distinguished veterans from throughout the state at a May 19th ceremony at the Capitol in Albany. Each honoree’s biography and photograph will become a part of a special on-line exhibit proclaiming the contributions of these exemplary New York veterans.

Here is a portion of the legislative resolution adopted by the senate honoring last year’s inductees:

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 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 the distinguished veterans from the State of New York upon the occasion of their induction into the New York State Senate Veterans’ Hall of Fame to be celebrated on May 20, 2014; and

WHEREAS, The banner of freedom will always wave over our beloved New York and all of America, the land of the free and the home of the brave; and

WHEREAS, The freedoms and security we cherish as Americans come at a very high price for those serving in the military in times of conflict; it is fitting and proper that we who are the beneficiaries of those who risk their lives, must never forget the courage with which these men and women served their country; 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 the distinguished veterans from the State of New York upon the occasion of their induction into the New York State Senate Veterans’ Hall of Fame to be celebrated on May 20, 2014.

If you are interested in reading about our past inductees, you can do so on-line at www.nysenate.gov/honoring-our-veterans.

Even more importantly, I need your help in finding a member of the New York State Senate Veterans’ Hall of Fame class of 2015. If you know of someone deserving of this recognition please go to my website www.senatorjimseward.com, click on the “Veterans’ Hall of Fame” icon and fill out the online nomination form. The nomination deadline is Friday, April 17th.

Further, my thanks to all veterans past and present, your courage, sacrifice and achievement are something each and every American can be proud of.