The assembly passed a resolution, sponsored by Assemblywoman Jenne and co-sponsored by Assemblyman Ken Blankenbush, R-Black River, honoring the soldiers for their service to the state and country. Senator Patty Ritchie, R-Oswegatchie, recognized the 10th Mountain Division during proceedings in the New York State Senate.
Assemblywoman Jenne, speaking on the floor of the assembly, said the members of the 10th Mountain Division are a part of the North Country fabric.
She noted a number of soldiers at Fort Drum are currently preparing for deployment to Iraq, a reminder of the sacrifices the soldiers and their families make for their country.
"We have a unique situation at Fort Drum in that the children of the soldiers that are stationed here attend our local schools, live in our community and utilize the same healthcare system. We really are one big happy family up in the North Country," the assemblywoman said.
"And so as they are here today, to interact with us and let us know more about what they do, not just in the state, not just for our nation, but for anyone who shares the ideals of democracy throughout this world, I would ask that we pause and really give due consideration to all of their sacrifices made by both our soldiers and their families," Assemblywoman Jenne added, noting the role the soldiers have played in the defense of the nation's ideals since 9/11.
Members of the 10th Mountain Division had several displays of military gear and the equipment used in modern warfare at the state Capitol for the event.
Assemblywoman Jenne said the displays gave her colleagues a reminder of the work being done around the world by our nation's military.
"The equipment they brought down includes a stretcher. There was a grappling demonstration, and they brought down several of the weapons they carry in battle,"Assemblywoman Jenne said after the assembly’s session.
"It's a vivid reminder that war isn't just planes flying at high altitudes dropping bombs. It's up close and personal, and there are casualties," she noted.
"That's what the 10th Mountain Division is called upon to do time and again. They go to where the fight is, and fight is what they do for us," Assemblywoman Jenne stressed.
Assemblywoman Jenne and Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie later met with Maj. Gen. Walter Piatt and representatives from Fort Drum.
The resolution noted Fort Drum is the largest military installation in the Northeast. The 10th Mountain Division is known as the Army's most deployed unit.
Fort Drum is the largest single-site employer in New York State, and an economic engine for the state and region, with a direct impact of roughly $1.2 billion in 2016. The post supports more than 72,000 people, including military personnel, their families, retirees and civilians.
"Fort Drum has and will continue to play an important and essential role in ensuring our nation's military readiness to defend our state and nation against hostility and threats to our safety and national security," the resolution noted.
IN THE PHOTOS:
IN THE TOP PHOTO:
Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie (center) jokes with Assemblywoman Addie A.E. Jenne and Major Gen.Walter Piatt of the 10th Mountain Division during a meeting Tuesday afternoon in the Speaker's Office.
IN THE TOP BOTTOM PHOTO:
Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie (l) and Assemblywoman Addie A.E. Jenne (r) visit with Major Gen. Walter Piatt (center) and Deputy to the Garrison Commander Eric Wagenaar (second from left) Tuesday afternoon during 10th Mountain Division and Fort Drum Day at the New York State Capitol.
