J 1211: Commending Raymond J. Turner posthumously upon the occasion of his designation as recipient of a Liberty Medal, the highest honor bestowed upon an individual by the New York State Senate

 Senate Resolution No. 1211 BY: Senator HINCHEY COMMENDING Raymond J. Turner posthumously upon the occasion of his designation as recipient of a Liberty Medal, the highest honor bestowed upon an individual by the New York State Senate 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 from this esteemed Body; and WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to commend Raymond J. Turner posthumously upon the occasion of his designation as recipient of a Liberty Medal, the highest honor bestowed upon an individual by the New York State Senate; the Dutchess County Office of Veterans Affairs will be honoring Raymond J. Turner on Tuesday, June 17, 2025; and WHEREAS, The New York State Senate Liberty Medal was established by Resolution and is awarded to individuals who have merited special commendation for exceptional, heroic, or humanitarian acts on behalf of their fellow New Yorkers; and WHEREAS, Born on January 19, 1932, in Troy, New York, Raymond J. Turner grew up with strong values and a deep appreciation for family and community; and WHEREAS, Raymond J. Turner attended St. Patrick's School and LaSalle Institute, where he laid the foundation for a life of integrity and dedication; and WHEREAS, Raymond J. Turner proudly served in the United States Air Force during the Korean War, stationed in Tachikawa, Japan, as a teletype and radio operator; and WHEREAS, For his courageous service, Raymond J. Turner's commitment to service earned him the Korean Service Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, and the UN Service Medal--recognitions of his contributions and sacrifice; and WHEREAS, After his military service, Raymond J. Turner called upon his skills and experience to build a career with Western Union; and WHEREAS, Raymond J. Turner had a passion for sales and became known as "the last great salesman," a title befitting his natural charisma and ability to connect with people; and WHEREAS, During his tenure with Western Union, fate led Raymond J. Turner to the love of his life and wife of 56 years, Muriel; together, they raised seven children--Thomas, Gloria, Linda, Colleen, Michael, Richard, and Laurie--who became the heart of their shared journey; and WHEREAS, Raymond J. Turner's legacy flourished through 13 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, each touched by his wisdom, warmth, and boundless love; and WHEREAS, Having an appetite for exploration and adventure, Raymond J. Turner loved traveling the country with Muriel, making lifelong friends along the way; and WHEREAS, With a gift for music and a beautiful voice that brought joy to many, Raymond J. Turner shared a remarkable moment on stage when he sang with Willie Nelson--a memory cherished by those who knew him; and WHEREAS, Raymond J. Turner died on December 14, 2011, at the age of 79; and WHEREAS, Raymond J. Turner's life was a testament to love, adventure, and dedication; he is remembered as a devoted husband, cherished father, and admired grandfather whose life was marked by kindness, resilience, a vibrant spirit, service, and an unwavering zest for life; and WHEREAS, Residents of this great State must never forget the courage with which these men and women served their country, and must recognize that no greater debt is owed than that owed to those who gave their lives for their beloved Nation and to those who continue to be missing in action; and WHEREAS, Having exhibited his patriotism both at home and abroad, Raymond J. Turner demonstrated his love for his country and merits forevermore the highest respect of his 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 commend Raymond J. Turner posthumously upon the occasion of his designation as recipient of a Liberty Medal, the highest honor bestowed upon an individual by the New York State Senate; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to the family of Raymond J. Turner.