Bill Text: VA HJR94 | 2024 | Regular Session | Enrolled
Bill Title: Commending John George Psaris.
Spectrum: Partisan Bill (Democrat 1-0)
Status: (Passed) 2024-02-01 - Bill text as passed House and Senate (HJ94ER) [HJR94 Detail]
Download: Virginia-2024-HJR94-Enrolled.html
WHEREAS, John George Psaris, a distinguished veteran of World War II and a highly admired member of the Leesburg community, celebrated his 100th birthday in 2023; and
WHEREAS, John Psaris was born in New York City on September 28, 1923, to George and Argero Psaris, both of whom had immigrated from Greece; and
WHEREAS, against his parents' wishes, John Psaris joined many of the other young men and women of his generation in service to the nation during World War II and enlisted in the United States Army in 1943; and
WHEREAS, John Psaris tested, maintained, transferred, and trained on the Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress heavy bomber, Boeing B-29 Superfortress heavy bomber, and the North American B-25 Mitchell medium bomber, all iconic symbols of the American air power that played a critical role in the victory over the Axis powers; and
WHEREAS, as a flight engineer, John Psaris developed an extensive technical understanding of his aircraft, and his expertise and experience made him a vital crew member; and
WHEREAS, John Psaris was responsible for monitoring and managing an aircraft's engines and fuel, as well as troubleshooting any malfunctions while in flight; he also played a key defensive role as the top turret gunner should the aircraft come under attack from above; and
WHEREAS, after his honorable military service, John Psaris returned to the United States and ultimately settled in the Commonwealth; he currently resides at Spring Arbor Senior Living in Leesburg; and
WHEREAS, John Psaris has witnessed countless historic events throughout his life, from the Great Depression and World War II to the Moon landing and the dawn of the Internet era, and he has provided his wise insights to new generations of Virginians; and
WHEREAS, in recognition of his 100th birthday, the nonprofit organization Chariots of Honor hosted a procession at Spring Arbor Senior Living to honor John Psaris' lifetime of achievements; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, the Senate concurring, That the General Assembly hereby commend John George Psaris on the occasion of his 100th birthday; and, be it
RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to John George Psaris as an expression of the General Assembly's admiration for his service to the nation and contributions to his community.
