Bill > J00020

This resolution honors Private Leonard Cesternino, a World War II soldier from Hudson, New York, who was posthumously awarded the Liberty Medal, the highest honor bestowed by the New York State Senate. The resolution highlights Cesternino's service in the United States Army, where he enlisted in 1943 and was assigned to the 125th Field Artillery Battalion, which distinguished itself by firing over 250,000 artillery rounds during 480 days of combat in the European Theater. On November 29, 1943, at the age of 20, Cesternino was killed in action near Scapoli, Italy, during an enemy artillery attack that disabled two guns and started ammunition pits on fire. Despite his young age, he was recognized for his valor, receiving multiple military awards including the Purple Heart and WWII Victory Medal. The resolution emphasizes the importance of remembering and honoring veterans like Cesternino who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country, and it formally commends him at a ceremony in Columbia County, while also directing that a copy of the resolution be transmitted to his family as a gesture of respect and remembrance.

Budget and Finance

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/J20