Georgia-2009-SR1401-Enrolled

WHEREAS, our nation's security continues to rely on patriotic men and women who put their personal lives on hold in order to place themselves in harm's way to protect the freedoms that all United States citizens cherish; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Steven P. Edwards, Sr., has long been recognized by the citizens of this nation for the vital role that he has played in leadership and his deep personal commitment to the welfare of the citizens of the United States; and

WHEREAS, in honor of his service with the United States Marine Corps as a guardian of this nation's freedom and liberty during the Vietnam War, Mr. Edwards was recently honored with a Purple Heart medal; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Edwards was wounded in combat with 43 days remaining in his 13 month tour of duty with the Marines during the Vietnam War, suffering severe injuries to his chest, shoulder, left hand, and left leg; and

WHEREAS, a native of Canton, Georgia, Mr. Edwards served two years, 11 months, and two days and was honorably discharged in April, 1969; and

WHEREAS, after his dedicated service to his country in the military, this Norcross High School graduate moved to Woodstock and worked with the Atlanta Transit Company for two years before again serving his fellow citizens as a letter carrier for the United States Postal Service until his retirement in 2003; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Edwards is united in love and marriage to his wife, Brenda, and he has been blessed with two children, Paul and Lindsay, five grandchildren with another on the way, and one great-grandchild; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Edwards embodies the spirit of service, willing to find meaning in something greater than himself, and it is abundantly fitting and proper that the outstanding accomplishments of this remarkable and distinguished American be recognized appropriately.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE that the members of this body commend Mr. Steven P. Edwards, Sr., for his efficient, effective, unselfish, and dedicated public service to the citizens of his country and extend to him their most profound appreciation for all members of the United States military who stand ever ready to lay the ultimate sacrifice upon the altar of freedom.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Secretary of the Senate is authorized and directed to transmit an appropriate copy of this resolution to Mr. Steven P. Edwards, Sr.