Bill > SR531

This resolution recognizes and honors Freedom, a male Southern bald eagle who was the mascot of Georgia Southern University from 2004 until his passing on March 29, 2025. Freedom was originally rescued from a nest in Maitland, Florida, after sustaining a permanent beak injury that prevented his release into the wild. With permission from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the university provided him a home at the Center for Wildlife Education and Lamar Q. Ball Jr. Raptor Center, where he became a living symbol of the university's spirit and commitment to wildlife conservation. Throughout his life, Freedom inspired thousands by performing majestic flights at sporting events, including soaring over Allen E. Paulson Stadium before home football games, and participating in events like the Savannah St. Patrick's Day Parade and university commencement ceremonies. As an ambassador for wildlife education, he engaged people of all ages in learning about wildlife care and conservation. The resolution honors Freedom's legacy of inspiration, education, and pride, expressing the Senate's deepest condolences upon his passing and directing the Secretary of the Senate to distribute an appropriate copy of the resolution to Georgia Southern University.