K 520: Commemorating the 100th Anniversary of the VFW Auxiliary Department of New York on April 30, 2025

 Assembly Resolution No. 520 BY: M. of A. Barclay COMMEMORATING the 100th Anniversary of the VFW Auxiliary Department of New York on April 30, 2025 WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize and honor milestone events of significance which exemplify dedication to community service and the enduring values of patriotism and civic engagement; and WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to commemorate the 100th Anniversary of the VFW Auxiliary Department of New York; and WHEREAS, Established on April 30, 1925, the VFW Auxiliary Department of New York has spent a century proudly serving our nation's veterans, advocating for their rights, and ensuring they receive the benefits and recognition they so rightfully deserve; and WHEREAS, With a membership exceeding 18,000 and growing, the VFW Auxiliary is actively engaged across the State of New York, making a lasting impact through educational initiatives, scholarship programs, and vital community services; and WHEREAS, The Auxiliary's contributions to youth education include support for the Voice of Democracy and Patriots' Pen essay contests, the 3D Patriotic Art and Patriotic Art scholarship competitions, and Continuing Education scholarships for members, their spouses, and children; and WHEREAS, The VFW Auxiliary Department of New York also champions causes such as cancer grants for members, veterans and family support services, hospital volunteerism, and various charitable efforts which uplift communities statewide; and WHEREAS, Committed to advocacy, the Auxiliary engages in federal efforts in coordination with the National VFW 2025 Priority Goals, playing a crucial role in landmark legislative achievements such as the passage of the PACT Act through direct outreach to members of Congress; and WHEREAS, The objectives of the VFW Auxiliary Department of New York remain as vital today as they were at its founding: to be fraternal, patriotic, historical, charitable, and educational; to support the Veterans of Foreign Wars and their members; to maintain fidelity to the Constitution and the laws of the United States; and to uphold the principles of freedom, equal rights, and justice for all; and WHEREAS, As the VFW Auxiliary Department of New York enters its second century of service, it stands as a shining example of civic pride, volunteerism, and unwavering devotion to those who have served in our nation's armed forces; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to commemorate the 100th Anniversary of the VFW Auxiliary Department of New York on April 30, 2025, and to express its heartfelt appreciation for a century of extraordinary service to veterans, their families, and the communities of New York State; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to the VFW Auxiliary Department of New York.