New York State SmartTranscripts:

[Crystal D. Peoples-Stokes — Majority Leader]: Madam speaker, would you please call the house back to order?

[Pamela J. Hunter — Acting Speaker (Presiding Officer)]: The house will come to order. Miss Peoples Strokes.

[Crystal D. Peoples-Stokes — Majority Leader]: Thank you, madam speaker. As we begin our traditional welcome to our West Point guest, and I know, as I speak for most of my colleagues here in the assembly as well, we'd like to say how truly honored we are as a body to have this prestigious and historic institution located in the state of New York. West Point graduates can be counted throughout the history as some of the nation's greatest leaders. And I suspect, and I'm pretty confident, the number of those leaders our future leaders are right here in our chambers today. From military commanders to elected officials to pioneers in industry, West Point graduates made and continue to make extraordinary contributions to both society and to our nation. The cadets that join us today here are have chosen a path of service. In my opinion, there's nothing more honorable, more nobler, and nothing more worthy of our respect and admiration than the opportunity to serve. I applaud these fine young men and women for placing self-service before self. May we pause in our deliberations to honor their courage, thank them for their selfless sacrifices, wish them the good health and safety as they continue in their careers. Madam speaker, thank you very much and we'll now look forward to your comments.

[Pamela J. Hunter — Acting Speaker (Presiding Officer)]: Thank you. It is my honor and privilege to interrupt the proceedings of the house to continue a special tradition. More than seventy years ago, the assembly, through the efforts of assembly member and West Point graduate James T McNamara, adopted its first West Point resolution to honor the United States Military Academy. I'm honored on behalf of speaker Carl Hasty and all my assembly colleagues to begin our annual recognition of West Point and the cadets who visit us today. With us today, we have colonel Daniel Stewey, commander US army garrison West Point, major Brittany Wooten, chaplain, USCC regimental chaplain, colonel Christina Fennizi, regimental training officer, US corps of cadets, Sergeant first class Raymond Barnett, tactical noncommissioned officer, US corps of cadets. Captain William Lutz, US corps of cadets, brigade, tactical department. Master sergeant Donald Seidl, US Military Academy Operations. Cadet j Suriana Ryan, first captain, US Corps of Cadets. The highly respected West Point Academy has stood tall and proud in New York's beautiful Hudson Valley since eighteen o two. The young women and men who attended West Point represent the best and the brightest of our communities. For more than two hundred years, United States Military Academy at West Point has served as a testament to the principles of honor, duty, and country. In just a moment, we will take up a resolution honoring the legacy of the academy and the role it has played in shaping the history of our state and the nation. We thank you for visiting us today and for your unwavering commitment to our nation. Resolution number ten sixty nine. Clerk will read.

[Assembly Reading Clerk]: Assembly number ten sixty nine, mister Ecas. Legislative resolution memorializing governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim 03/19/2020 as West Point Day in the state of New York.

[Pamela J. Hunter — Acting Speaker (Presiding Officer)]: Mister Stern, on the resolution.

[Steve Stern — Chair, Assembly Committee on Veterans’ Affairs]: So, on the resolution. Thank you, madam speaker. It's with great honor that I speak today in my capacity as the chairman of the New York State Assembly's Committee on Veterans Affairs as a part of this annual event dedicated to the United States Military Academy at West Point located here in the great state of New York. It is an absolute privilege to welcome colonel Daniel r Stewey, commander of the United States Army Garrison at West Point, outstanding cadets, including first captain Jay Surian Orion and senior personnel joining us here today on this very special occasion. In 2025, we celebrated the two hundred and fiftieth anniversaries of the United States Navy, Marine Corps, and the Army. This year, we celebrate the two hundred and fiftieth anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. It's important that we continue to recognize and honor the vital contributions that the West Point Military Academy has continuously made towards ensuring American freedom. During the Revolutionary War, General George Washington considered West Point to be the most important strategic location in America and and ordered its strategic fortification in 1778, where it played a critical role in the liberation of The United States from British rule. As the oldest continuously occupied army post in The United States, West Point serves as a reminder of the sacrifices that service members have made for over two hundred and fifty years to preserve liberty and democracy and selflessly protect the American public. Established by an act of congress and signed into law by president Thomas Jefferson in March '2, the West Point Military Academy has guided the best and the brightest for two hundred and twenty four years through intensive training and rigorous academic curriculum to personal and professional success. It is here where our future leaders come to learn and commit themselves to the values of duty, honor, and country. These three words are instilled in the thousands of hours spent training, educating, and inspiring each cadet so that they may graduate as a commissioned leader prepared for a career of excellence and service to our great nation as an officer of the United States Army. The Academy, whose mission remains the same since the beginning, continues to provide our nation with able and dedicated future leaders. Academy alumni have excelled not only on the battlefields with traditional front lines, but also on battlefields well beyond. These same cadets have then excelled in life after their military service in many fields of endeavor, including Anne McClain, class of 2002, colonel, United States Army engineer and NASA astronaut. And Diana Holland, class of 1990, army general and engineering officer who served as United States Military Academy's seventy sixth commandant of cadets from 2016, 2017, and served in Iraq and Afghanistan. West Point alumni embody a history of tradition and commitment that we are so proud to have here in the state of New York. We owe all of our cadets our respect and gratitude, and I and all of my colleagues salute you on your outstanding service. On behalf of the entire Veterans Affairs Committee, it is my personal pleasure to welcome and congratulate all of the cadets here today. Thank you. And we wish all of you every success in the future. Thank you, madam speaker.

[Pamela J. Hunter — Acting Speaker (Presiding Officer)]: Thank you. Mister Manktilo, on the resolution.

[Brian D. Manktelow — Assemblymember]: Thank you, madam speaker. As I thought about saying a few words this morning or this afternoon here on the floor, I think about these young men and women. We think about where they came from, how they got to where they are today, thinking about that path of life. These men and women started long time ago, long before they even knew they were going to be here on this floor today. And as a country, the privileges that we have and help guide them to where they are. From the start of their school time, going through the grades, going through the with the teachers, with sports, with college, with everything else that's involved in their lives, being involved in in their families. We have all of that to be thankful for because of young men and women such as themselves, the cadets, who have come here before in prior years. Those young men and women are out there securing the freedoms that we all have here today so we can bring people into the chamber, so we have the ability to go out and get a burger at Burger King, so we have the freedom to worship where we want, that we have the freedom to go to bed at night knowing we don't have to wake up in the morning or wonder, will we wake up in the morning? Where will our country be? What will be going on? We are very fortunate here in The United States. So to the young men and women, the cadets that are here today, As the ranking member from the minority conference, it's a it's an honor and a privilege to hold this title. Not for me, not for us, but for all of you because you are all our future, my children's future, my grandchildren's future. And it's just an honor that they are taking the time to come here and we all let's get rid of that aisle. We are here in this chamber to honor and recognize you again. So thank you for your dedicated dedication to the school. Thank you for your commitment. We know it's not easy, but the end is near. You will accomplish the mission and we we will all be better because of what you're going to do and what you have done. Thank you, madam speaker.

[Pamela J. Hunter — Acting Speaker (Presiding Officer)]: Thank you. Mister Eckis, on the resolution.

[Chris Eachus — Assemblymember, 99th District]: Thank you, madam speaker. Welcome to West Point Day. Thank you, colleagues, for being here to recognize these cadets and the wonderful institution that they come from. I also wanted to inform you that I gave them permission today to smile while they're here. Each year, it continues to be my distinct honor as the representative of the 99th District to sponsor and introduce this resolution to recognize the historic West Point located right in my district on the banks of the Hudson River. This year in particular is a remarkable time. As already mentioned, America's two hundred and fiftieth anniversary and West Point's Two Hundred And Twenty Fourth Anniversary. It is beyond difficult for me to fully encapsulate what that two hundred and fifty years represents for us as a nation. However, I can start with a short history lesson on the role of West Point in our nation's founding. By an act of congress on March '2, the United States Military Academy at West Point was established. General George Washington considered that area in the Hudson Valley to be most important as a strategic location in newly formed America, serving as a critical pathway for logistics so that they what they did was what any normal person would do. They built a giant 13 link chain that stretched across the Hudson River, spanning 600 yards during the revolution and weighing 65 tons, and it was all made in Orange County. Talk about supporting local businesses. For the first time, the attempt that they made had issues, and unfortunately, I don't know if you're aware, but it broke. But on the second try, the great chain worked. The English never took West Point, and the rest, they say, is history. Pieces of that very chain can be seen today at West Point. The story is a fun one, but also a reminder that we must make must take time to recognize the importance, both in the past and future, of this incredible institution. Without the tenacity and brave deeds of the soldiers and graduates of West Point, you and I may not be in these very seats today. Our democratic experiment would have ended before it could have even had a chance to begin. We are far away from the Revolutionary War days, but as we have seen in recent weeks, the stakes still remain very high, dire and consequential to protecting democracy. These cadets right here before you have taken an honor bound oath to protect our country from all dangers, foreign and domestic. Their journeys may cross paths that determine the path of our country's future, decisions that could impact millions of lives. The very foundation of our nation's values are on the line, and I could not be prouder than to see from these cadets here today that we are in very good hands. So please take the time to come and speak with these cadets who are here today. Their stories, listen to their stories and let them share their experiences with you and you will understand why you are not at West Point nor have you gone to West Point probably before as with me. But who knows? You may be talking to a future president. For instance, we think right away of Dwight D. Eisenhower. And most importantly, most importantly, go army, beat navy.

[Sam Berger — Assemblymember]: Thank you.

[Pamela J. Hunter — Acting Speaker (Presiding Officer)]: Thank you. Mister O'Farro on the resolution.

[Unknown Assemblymember ('Mr. O’Farro') — Navy veteran]: Yes. Thank you. Good afternoon, and thank you mister Eckis for bringing this great resolution to the floor. As a former well, not former, but I am still a navy veteran. I'd like to thank you brave men and women. Also, on behalf of the eleventh district, thank you for your courage and your commitment. I'm a navy veteran, but my father was an army veteran as well. He passed away due to some illnesses that he, you know, contracted from Vietnam. But once again, I wanna thank you for your service and your commitment and understand that we are here to support you in anything and all that we do. Thank you.

[Pamela J. Hunter — Acting Speaker (Presiding Officer)]: Thank you. Mister Jacobson, on the resolution.

[Jonathan G. Jacobson — Assemblymember]: Thank you, madam speaker. Having grown up just 15 miles north of West Point in Newburgh, I know full well the impact of West Point on the local economy. My family had a small business. We we cleaned, rugs and sold carpets, and I was a truck helper, and we'd go many times to West Point. And as a young boy, there used to be, an exhibition game between the Yankees and the West Point baseball team. I wish they would bring that back. Today, we recognize the sacrifices of cadets in the past that they have made and will continue to make in the future. I've learned two great lessons from observing and watching West Point over the years. The first is duty on our country, and the second is go army, beat navy. Thank you.

[Pamela J. Hunter — Acting Speaker (Presiding Officer)]: Thank you. Mister Chang, on the resolution.

[Lester Chang — Assemblymember]: Thank you, madam speaker. As a retired navy chief warrant officer in Intel Field, during my time in Afghanistan 2009, 2010 in the joint operations forces, I served many with who are graduate from West Point graduates there. Many of them are professionals. During my time in in Washington DC in the intel field, many of them are are West Point graduates and they are very very professional, highly intelligent, and amazed, highly grasped many many many subjects preparing for for for the mission. And and and I congratulate for those who are willing to put their hands up serving in in our country's armed forces as a cadet and continue to serve. And I hope, you will continue to, to retire as I do and and and contribute to our society and our defense. Thank you very much, madam speaker. Thank you. And thank you for the sponsor for this, for this resolution.

[Pamela J. Hunter — Acting Speaker (Presiding Officer)]: Thank you. On the resolution, all those in favor signify by saying aye. Aye. Opposed, no. The resolution is adopted. It is my privilege to call upon colonel Daniel r Stewey, commander US army garrison West Point to join me here on the rostrum to accept this resolution and to address this body.

[Colonel Daniel R. Stewey — Commander, U.S. Army Garrison West Point]: Thank you. Will it give me if I'm standing up? Or Yeah. Yeah.

[Pamela J. Hunter — Acting Speaker (Presiding Officer)]: I'm ready.

[Unknown Assemblymember ('Mr. O’Farro') — Navy veteran]: Thank you.

[Colonel Daniel R. Stewey — Commander, U.S. Army Garrison West Point]: K. Speaker Hastie, minority leader Ra, members of this distinguished assembly, good morning, and thank you so much for welcoming us here today. On behalf of lieutenant general Gilland and command sergeant major Baretto, the soldiers, cadets, civilians, and families of the United States Military Academy and US Army, thank you for this recognition and for our continued partnership. Mister speaker, sir, thank you for the opportunity to address the assembly. Assemblyman Ekas, where are you, sir? How are you? Yep. There you are, sir. Thank you for hosting us and for your continued support of the West Point community. Assemblyman Assemblyman Stern, where'd you go, sir? There you are. Thank thank you, sir. Thank you for your leadership and your commitment to New York veterans and military families. Ladies and gentlemen, since 1952, the state of New York has formally recognized West Point's contributions to our state and to our nation. That enduring tradition speaks to something deeper than ceremony. It reflects a bond, one rooted in a shared history, shared responsibility, and a shared commitment to service. This year, that history carries even greater weight. Our army recently marked its 200 birthday, a milestone few institutions in this world can claim. You think in June 1775, Continental Congress established the American army. And then just three years later in the 1778, West Point became the strategic anchor of that army. General Washington understood the significance of the Hudson River Valley. He called West Point the most important post of America. From those rocky heights above the river, soldiers built fortifications and placed artillery and stretched a massive iron chain of as recently mentioned, across the Hudson to prevent the British warships from dividing the colonies. West Point was not simply a garrison. It was a decisive stand for the survival of a young republic. For two hundred fifty years, the United States Army has stood in defense of this nation, and West Point has remained central to that story. So today, as the garrison commander, I do have the privilege of leading the installation that supports the United States Military Academy, ensuring that that historic post remains secure, resilient, and ready to accomplish its mission. That mission is very clear. It's to educate, train, and inspire leaders of character for our army and our nation. The cadets with us today who call the Empire State home are preparing to lead soldiers in defense of the constitution, and they're developing not only tactical competence, but moral and ethical foundations rooted in duty, honor, and country. They train on a ground that has shaped leaders for more than two centuries, and New Yorkers have always been part of that legacy. From the revolution to today's global operations, from active duty soldiers to citizen soldiers of the National Guard and Army Reserve, from West Point graduates who have led in combat and to those who have served in government, business, and education. New York has constantly answered the nation's call, and that partnership remains vital. West Point is a part of the Hudson Valley community. Our families live here. Our children attend schools here. Our civilian workforce strengthens the regional economy. We're stewards of the historic land and resources entrusted to us by the American people. And our ability to accomplish our mission depends in part on strengthened relationship with leaders like all of you here today. Your support for our military families, veterans, infrastructure, and education strengthens readiness and reinforces the bond between the army and the society it serves. We're committed to being good neighbors, to preserving history, protecting the environment, and fostering opportunities that benefit both West Point communities across this great state. A strong democracy requires a strong civil military relationship. Moments like today reaffirm our partnership. On behalf of the entire West Point community, thank you for your service, for your continued support, and for honoring West Point. We're proud to serve in the Empire State. Ladies and gentlemen, thank you. And as always, go army, be navy.

[Pamela J. Hunter — Acting Speaker (Presiding Officer)]: Thank you very much, colonel. Miss Peoples' strokes.

[Crystal D. Peoples-Stokes — Majority Leader]: Madam speaker, several of our colleagues represent districts where these outstanding men and women reside. It is now appropriate to allow our members to introduce the cadets who are from their districts.

[Pamela J. Hunter — Acting Speaker (Presiding Officer)]: Mister Berger, for the purpose of an introduction.

[Sam Berger — Assemblymember]: Thank you, madam speaker. As a member as a proud member of the veteran affairs committee, it is always a pleasure and a privilege to introduce cadets for West Point Day. Today, I have the distinct privilege of introducing two cadets. The first being Joel Shin of College Point. Cadet Shin was born and raised in Queens coming from a Korean background. Attended one of New York City's specialized high schools, the high school for mathematics, science, and engineering, where he competed track and cross country and took part in the school's research concentration. He reported to West Point last summer and is currently a plebe and plans to study computer science this fall. When asked about his plans for the future, Joel said he's looking forward to cadet field training this upcoming summer and plans to partake in military schools such as air assault. He would also like to complete some research with the computer science department and complete various certifications to supplement his major. We thank him for his dedication and the service to our country. Thank you.

[Pamela J. Hunter — Acting Speaker (Presiding Officer)]: For joining us here today for that Shin. Mister Norber for the purpose of an introduction.

[Unknown Assemblymember ('Mr. Norber')]: Thank you, madam speaker. I rise today to introduce cadet Ryan Zeng, who I am pleased to say also resides in my hometown of Great Neck. Khadid Singh is the child of immigrants who came to America in pursuit of the American dream as graduate students. Early on in his upbringing, he understood the importance of contributing and being a part of the of the nation's military. As an and as a part of that American dream, he knew that how important it was to contribute to the community, and he became an Eagle Scout early on in his life and volunteered as a firefighter. At West Point, he studies finance. He is an avid skydiver, scuba dives, and enjoys backpack backpacking whenever he can. He also serves as the ACIC for the Chinese club and Vanguard CSB. This is all with the intended goal to leave an everlasting impact on the other cadets of West Point. I just wanna say how great it is to see somebody like you from our community, from Great Neck, because everything we do every day here as members of the assembly is just to make sure that we have people like you within our districts and to because we live in a time where there's much confusion, and people are not sure exactly where the priorities should be. So I'm so thankful to have somebody like you in my community. And, madam speaker, would you please grant him all the cordialities and privileges of floor?

[Pamela J. Hunter — Acting Speaker (Presiding Officer)]: Welcome and thank you for joining us here today, cadet Zhang. Thank you. Ms. Shimsky for the purpose of an introduction.

[MaryJane Shimsky — Assemblymember]: Thank you very much, Madam Speaker. I have the privilege today of introducing cadet Cade Riddle. Hi, Cade. Cadet Riddle grew up along the Hudson River not too far south of West Point in the village of Sleepy Hollow. Kate is the kind of very well rounded individual that we want representing us in various countries abroad. He is majoring in systems engineering which is a critical field of the future. He will always have a job. He will also know how to think for the rest of his life because of that major. He enjoys learning languages. He is currently proficient in Spanish and is learning Russian. Among his pursuits is tactical shooting competitions, which I do want to learn more about. Among his future ambitions is he wants to become a ranger. I don't mean a Texas ranger. And given how rigorous he is in his preparation, I am sure he will be a big success. So if you would please welcome Cadet Riddle and grant him all the cordialities of the floor.

[Pamela J. Hunter — Acting Speaker (Presiding Officer)]: Welcome and thank you for joining us here today, Cadet Riddle. Mr. Manktilo for the purpose of an introduction.

[Brian D. Manktelow — Assemblymember]: Thank you madam speaker. First of all I would like to thank leader Roth for giving me this opportunity to fill in here for assemblyman Godafo as this young man is in his district. Here we go. Cadet Sanchez. Cadet Sanchez is from Bayshore, New York, which is in the Assemblyman's District. He's part of company g three. I believe they are the gophers. His intended branch is military intelligence. His major is applied psychology. He enjoys company athletics. Not sure I'd go with that one, but military training will be air assault school. I'd just like to talk a little bit about the cadet. Cadet Sanchez comes from a dual multi family and has been part of the army culture for as long as he can remember. Last semester, cadet Sanchez performed the role of battalion command sergeant major overseeing three sixty five cadets and has graduated from the air assault school during his time at west point. Heading into first the senior year, currently he is assistant with operations planning with the company he is assigned to. What this cadet's future has in mind or what he has in mind for the future, cadet Sanchez has always aspired to attend the inter service physician assistant program or the USU school of medicine in the pursuit of practicing medicine both during and after time in service. So, madam speaker, it's my privilege again to introduce cadet Sanchez on behalf of assemblyman Gondolfo, and may you give him all the cordialities of the house as well. Thank you, madam speaker.

[Pamela J. Hunter — Acting Speaker (Presiding Officer)]: Welcome and thank you for joining us here today cadet Sanchez. Mr. Cashman, for the purpose of an introduction.

[Unknown Assemblymember ('Mr. Cashman')]: Madam speaker, it is my privilege and honor to rise to recognize cadet Richard McGrath of Champlain, New York. A proud member of the North Country before arriving at West Point, cadet enlisted in the cavalry scout, completing one station unit training at Fort Benning, Georgia, and later serving at Fort Riley, Kansas. He also attended the United States Military Academy Preparatory School, continuing his path of service and leadership. At the academy, cadet is active in scalp masters council, spirit, and jazz bands as he completed the military training, including the order of the silver spur and Norwegian Foot March. After his service, cadet McGrath hopes to return home and work for the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation protecting the Adirondacks that he grew up exploring. Please join me in recognizing this outstanding cadet, Richard McGrath, for his dedication, service, and leadership to the great people of New York State. Thank you and God bless.

[Pamela J. Hunter — Acting Speaker (Presiding Officer)]: Welcome and thank you for joining us today, cadet McGrath. Mr. Brown, for the purpose of an introduction.

[Keith P. Brown — Assemblymember, 12th District]: Thank you, madam speaker. I am thrilled, particularly this year, the two hundred and fiftieth anniversary of our great nation, to carry on this proud tradition of pausing our deliberations to honor these outstanding cadets from the United States Military Academy at West Point. Today, we recognize and celebrate these individuals who live by the enduring motto held by all cadets who come before them, duty, honor, and country. These officers are are in training are the best of the best. Their rigorous academic schedule as well as their intense physical and military training in building leaders with character and strength. I am especially proud to be able to introduce to my assembly colleagues, cadet Caroline Carvajal. She's from the 12th Assembly District and in from my hometown of East North Court, New York. She's in company f three at the academy, and her intended branch in which she hopes to be commissioned is field artillery. She's majoring in physics and is conducting research in the physics and nuclear engineering department. Outside of her outstanding academic studies, she's a member of the spirit band, plays football and basketball. And this summer, cadet Carvajal hopes to attend air assault school to earn her wings. Caroline, on behalf of myself, the New York State Assembly, and District 12, I want to say how impressive you are and how very proud we are to have you represent our district, our state, and our great nation. We wish you continued success at the academy and in your future service in the United States Army. May God bless you and all the members of our armed forces and keep you safe. And finally, as a son of two army veterans, my father, justice Harry Richard Brown, who was a bronze star recipient, a radio operator, and a waist gunner on a b 17, and my grandfather, Harry Vincent Brown, we thank you for your service. God bless.

[Pamela J. Hunter — Acting Speaker (Presiding Officer)]: Welcome and thank you for joining us here today, cadet Carval. Mr. Berger, for the purpose of an introduction.

[Sam Berger — Assemblymember]: Thank you, Madam Speaker. Round two. I would also like to introduce cadet Tricia Chen. Prior to West Point, Tricia was a 74 d chemical biological radiological and nuclear specialist. She had the privilege of being stationed at Sheffield Barracks Hawaii with the twenty fifth Infantry Division for two and a half years. With the twenty fifth, she had the opportunity to shoot gunnery on the Big Island, compete in the best warrior competition, and graduate from the same basic leader course class as her twin sister Tracy, who I've also had the privilege pleasure of introducing on the floor. With her younger brother enlisted and waiting for acceptance to West Point, Tricia truly comes from a family of service and is a testament to the dedication, discipline, and commitment that define those who answer the call to serve our country. Thank you so much for all that you do and we welcome you to the floor.

[Pamela J. Hunter — Acting Speaker (Presiding Officer)]: Welcome and thank you for joining us here today. Cadet Jen. Thank you. Mister Slater, for the purpose of an introduction.

[Matt Slater — Assemblymember]: Thank you, madam speaker. This is such a privilege and incredible day to recognize West Point. Every chapter of my life includes something at West Point. As a kid growing up, going to camp there, I was married in the Thayer Hotel right on post, and my in laws live right off post about a half a mile away. So my family and I spend a lot of time there. I'm pretty sure my own kids already think they're cadets. And so to be here today to recognize these incredible individuals, the incredible leaders is just simply amazing. And people wonder why I root for Navy, by the way, and how I wound up in the Navy Reserve is a whole different conversation and different story. But we are here today to welcome cadet James Artesana from the fighting 94th Carmel, New York, his home. It's great to welcome him here today. He is a member of Bravo One Company. Intended branch is aviation. He has participated in company athletics as well as the Norwegian Foot March, which if you don't know, and maybe we'll put something together here for the Norwegian Foot March, is a 18.6 mile rucks ruck with a 25 pound ruck on your back. You have to get it done in less than four and a half hours. And this wonderful cadet no. I've already seen some of my colleagues saying no, but I'd be happy to try that out. But James has been a wonderful leader in our community. Comes from a great family who understands the purpose of service and the purpose of community. His father was a member of the FDNY. His mom was a school counselor. And he has an incredible future ahead of him focused as an aviation officer. He's looking forward to attending several army schools such as Sappr, which is a 28 course that's similar to Ranger School. Also, he's looking forward to air assaults or possibly joining the airborne. In the future, he is participating in the cadet leader troop training, which is three to four weeks, where he shadows a lieutenant who's already managing troops. But this is a wonderful young man who, in our community, was a star soccer player, and he has done a great job representing our community. If you don't get goosebumps seeing these young men and women here, I don't know what else can motivate you to love this country the way these young men and women do. And so it is an absolute honor and privilege to be here today to welcome cadet Artesana to this chamber. Madam Speaker, if you could please extend the cordialities and privileges of the floor, would greatly appreciate it.

[Pamela J. Hunter — Acting Speaker (Presiding Officer)]: Welcome and thank you for joining us here today, cadet Artesana. Ms. Giglio for the purpose of an introduction.

[Jodi Giglio — Assemblymember]: Thank you Madam Speaker. It's an honor and a privilege to be in the chamber today to welcome these wonderful cadets from West Point. Today, I rise to recognize an exceptional young leader from Long Island, cadet Jess Joe Augustine of Mount Sinai. Cadet Augustine's story is one of determination, discipline and a commitment to service that truly embodies the best of our state and our nation. Coming from a non military background, he chose a path of challenge and purpose, answering the call to serve through the United States Military Academy at West Point. Before even beginning his military journey, cadet Augustine distinguished himself through athletics, earning two New York State titles and the 3,000 meter steeplechase. That level of achievement requires not only physical strength but mental toughness, resilience and an unwavering work ethic. Qualities that have clearly carried over into his life as a cadet. At West Point, he continues to challenge himself both academically and physically pursuing a major in environmental engineering while preparing for a future branch in cyber. Two fields that are critically important to the future security and sustainability of our nation. Cadet Augustine has already completed aerosol training demonstrating his willingness to push beyond his limits and embrace the most demanding aspects of military preparation. And his ambitions do not stop there. He has set his sights on attending some of the army's most rigorous schools including ranger and sapper training and ultimately hopes to return to West Point one day as an instructor, giving back by shaping the next generation of leaders. What stands out most about cadet Augustine is his mindset. In his own words, he says, I enjoy a challenge and always find a way to solve it. That attitude, one of perseverance, problem solving and quiet determination is exactly what we look for in those who will lead and protect our country. Today, we honor not just his accomplishments but his character, his drive and his commitment to something greater than himself. Cadet Jess Joe Augustine represents the very best of New York. We are proud of you. We are grateful for your service and we look forward to all that you will accomplish in the years ahead. Thank you madam speaker.

[Pamela J. Hunter — Acting Speaker (Presiding Officer)]: Welcome and thank you for joining us here today, cadet Augustine. Mr. B Pen for the purpose of an introduction.

[Anil Beephan Jr. — Assemblymember]: Thank you, madam speaker. With me here today is cadet Joshua Brancamp. You mind standing? Joshua hails from my hometown of Hopewell Junction. He's part of company h three and his intended branch is engineer. Fun fact about him is that he is a part of the scout master council and his military training specializes in air assault. And while we're here to recognize Joshua, I have to mention his father who was an officer in the army reserves because he was the reason why Joshua had a goal to make it to West Point one day and join the military. Prior to his time in the service, if this wasn't legendary enough being a member of West Point, he was an Eagle Scout at home and he ran track and field at my alma mater and our alma mater, John Jay High School. So we wish him the very best in his future endeavors as he hopes to graduate as an engineer and post at Fort Bragg and he hopes to attend schools like SAFR and Ranger School. We wish you all the best and welcome to Albany. Madam Speaker, if you would extend the cordialities of the house.

[Pamela J. Hunter — Acting Speaker (Presiding Officer)]: Welcome and thank you for joining us here today, cadet Brancamp. Ms. Walsh for the purpose of an introduction.

[Mary Beth Walsh — Assemblymember]: Thank you very much Madam Speaker. I was saying this on the way in this morning, this is really one of my favorite days that we have here in Albany. I just, I absolutely love this tradition. I can't believe it's been seventy four years. It's really great. I love this stick. I'm very, very honored on behalf of the 112th Assembly District to welcome Cadet Thomas Villano III whose hometown is Galloway, New York. And for those of you who don't know, Galloway is a very small rural community where everybody knows everybody. And I don't know what it was that inspired Thomas to go to West Point. I don't know who in his life because he doesn't have, he doesn't come from a military family as so many of the cadets mentioned previously did, siblings and parents and everything. But he was an outstanding student while at Galloway. He played basketball, was a thrower in track and field, went on to state qualifiers for track. He is with company C4, the Cowboys, and his intended branch is field artillery. His major is applied psychology and he's very interested in going into the medical field upon graduation and completion after grad school. I'm just enormously proud, you know, the 112th Assembly District, we're home to the 100, the Navy Nuclear Power Training Unit. We have a great deal of pride and profound respect for all of our military. So we're so pleased to welcome Thomas Villano, the third cadet, to the assembly chamber today. We wish him all the best in his future endeavors. Thank you.

[Pamela J. Hunter — Acting Speaker (Presiding Officer)]: Welcome and thank you for joining us here today, cadet Filano. Mister Stern, for the purpose of an introduction.

[Steve Stern — Chair, Assembly Committee on Veterans’ Affairs]: Yes. Thank you, madam speaker. In my capacity as the chairman of the New York State Assembly's Committee on Veterans Affairs, it's my great privilege to introduce the first captain of the United States Military Academy Corps of Cadets. First captain Jay Suriana Ryan. As my colleagues know, the selection of the first captain is highly competitive and given to a cadet who best represents the values of duty, honor, and country, and is prepared to lead. As first captain, Surian Orion is responsible for the overall performance of the approximately 4,400 corps of cadets. The first captain has stated that he's incredibly honored to be chosen for this position to lead the corps of cadets and is excited to build a team that holds each other accountable to the very best standard that we set for ourselves to be the best leaders and teammates we can be at the academy. A team that recognizes we strive to con to succeed in what we set out to achieve, and that if we fail, we continue to work together until we achieve victory together. Surian Orion's accomplishments at West Point include participation in company athletics and service to the patrolling cadet in charge of the SAPR leader course training. He successfully completed the army's SAPR leader course in Sabolowski Air Assault School and earned the Gold German Armed Forces Proficiency Badge. Additionally, Syrian Orion spent a semester in the Surface Academy Exchange Program at the United States Naval Academy. First captain will post to the one hundred and seventy third Airborne Brigade Combat Team in Vicenza, Italy as an infantry officer. And, certainly, everybody would agree that the first captain brings great pride, to his family, to West Point, and to all of us, that call New York State home. Thank you, madam speaker.

[Pamela J. Hunter — Acting Speaker (Presiding Officer)]: On behalf of mister Stern, the speaker, and all the members, we welcome you captain to the New York State Assembly and to all your colleagues who have joined you. Cadets and soldiers, this is a special day for us. We are so pleased that you have been able to join us. Thank you so very much for being here. For an introduction.

[Crystal D. Peoples-Stokes — Majority Leader]: Thank you, madam speaker. As the granddaughter and the daughter of veterans, it is truly my honor on this West Point day as it is on always to be in the same space with people who are willing to serve in the manner that they have. So I'm honored now to introduce to, although we've heard from him, The US colonel Daniel Stewie, commander of US army Grierson at West Point. Colonel Daniel Stewey commissioned in the infantry through ROTC program at the University of Akron, Ohio. He served in various leadership and staff positions within both light and mechanized mechanized infantry. As a lieutenant, colonel Stewie was assigned to the second battalion five hundred and second infantry regiment, the one hundred and first Airborne Division from 2003 to 2007. During that time, he served in various leadership roles and deployed twice in support of operation Iraq Iraqi freedom freedom. As captain, colonel Stewie served in Fort Benning, Georgia as a platoon trainer for the infantry basic officer leader course from 2007 to 2009. He was resign reassigned to the third brigade the third infantry division from 2009 to February 2014. Colonel Stewie also served as a major within the third brigade, third infantry division. Colonel Stewie has was then assigned to the Joint Readiness Training Center in Fort Cork, Louisiana. From 2014 to 2016, colonel Stewie deployed in support of operation freedom sent now in Afghanistan to serve the resolute on a resolute support staff. Colonel Stewie redeployed to Fort Worth Leavenworth for the advanced schooling in the US Army School of Advanced Military Studies. As a lieutenant, colonel colonel Stewie served at the future and the concept center under the newly formed army futures comrade command as a chief for the FCC director of strategic initiatives group. Additionally, he commanded the first battalion three hundred and twenty seventh infantry regiment from 06/05/2020 to 05/19/2022. Following the command colonel Stewie served the United States Military Academy within the Department of Military Instruction, performing duties as the chief of military science and training. The colonel's military and civilian education includes a master's degree from Michigan Central University, United States Army Advanced Military Studies program, and the Advanced Strategic Leadership Studies program, The US Army Command And General Staff Officers course, the man maneuvers captain career course, the infantry infantry officers basic course, the ranger school, the airborne school, the pathfinder school, and the air assault school. The colonel is married to Lindsay, and they married in 2002. And together, they have a son, Joey, and a daughter, Lily. If you would please welcome this quite esteemed colonel to our chambers and thank him for his presence and being here with all of those that he had brought to join us from West Point. It's honored to have you here, sir.

[Pamela J. Hunter — Acting Speaker (Presiding Officer)]: Thank you and welcome, Commander, for joining us here today. Ms. Stokes for an additional introduction.

[Crystal D. Peoples-Stokes — Majority Leader]: Thank you, madam speaker. We are also joined today by a number of West Point support personnel, including mister Matthew Hentz, a US Military Academy Affairs community engagement, mister Eric Belton, US Military Academy Public Affairs command information, and we were provided a wonderful prayer by Major Brittany Wooten, who is The US regimental chaplain. And we have Miss Gina Cisneros, a US army garrison West Point affairs officer. Madam speaker, would you please welcome these distinguished guests to our chambers as well?

[Pamela J. Hunter — Acting Speaker (Presiding Officer)]: Welcome and thank you to all the members of West Point delegation for coming here today. On behalf of Ms. People Stokes, the speaker, and all members, we welcome you here to the New York State Assembly extending to you the privileges of the floor. Our thanks and congratulations for the service that you have provided this country and this state. You will always be a part of our family. As an army veteran myself, it is my pleasure to close by saying, go army, beat navy, hooah. Thank you very much for joining us today. Miss People Stokes.

[Crystal D. Peoples-Stokes — Majority Leader]: Madam speaker, that concludes our opportunity to honor these fine men and women and officers. We want to thank them for their presence and honor their courage and also thank them for their selfless service and their sacrifice. Madam speaker, do you have any further housekeeping or resolutions?

[Pamela J. Hunter — Acting Speaker (Presiding Officer)]: We do have a piece of housekeeping on a motion by mister Delon, page 37, calendar number two seven six, bill number a eight seven three nine. The amendments are received and adopted. We have no resolutions. Miss Peoples.

[Crystal D. Peoples-Stokes — Majority Leader]: I'm now moved that the assembly stand adjourned until Friday, March 20, tomorrow being a legislative day, and that we reconvene at 2PM on March being a session day.

[Pamela J. Hunter — Acting Speaker (Presiding Officer)]: Miss Peoplestokes' motion, the house stands adjourned.