Senate Resolution No. 3261
BY: Senator BRESLIN
COMMENDING John Russell Reitano posthumously upon
the occasion of his designation for special
recognition by Rensselaer County at its Honor a
Deceased Veteran Ceremony on August 10, 2020
WHEREAS, Members of the Armed Services from the State of New York,
who have served so valiantly and honorably in wars in which this
country's freedom was at stake, as well as in the preservation of peace
in peacetime, deserve a special salute; and
WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to commend John
Russell Reitano posthumously upon the occasion of his designation for
special recognition by Rensselaer County at its Honor a Deceased Veteran
Ceremony on Monday, August 10, 2020; and
WHEREAS, John Russell Reitano was born on February 6, 1926, to the
late Anthony and Mary (Marvelli) Reitano in Troy, New York, where he
attended St. Peter's School, Troy High School, and Troy Business School;
and
WHEREAS, On November 2, 1943, John Russell Reitano enlisted in the
United States Army and proudly served his country as a gunners mate with
Aviation, Construction, Ordinance, Repair Navy (ACORN 45) during World
War II; during the liberation of the Philippine Islands, he secured,
repaired and provided fire cover for Sea Bees rebuilding the landing
strip at Sangly Point; and
WHEREAS, For his courageous service during the Second World War,
John Russell Reitano was awarded the American Theater Medal, WWII
Victory Medal, Philippine Liberation Ribbon, and Asiatic Pacific Medal;
and
WHEREAS, Upon the completion of his military service on May 7, 1946,
John Russell Reitano returned to New York and married the former Dorothy
Berlingieri at the Church of the Feast of the Assumption in
Mechanicville; together, they raised two children, John (Frances) and
Paul (Peggy); and
WHEREAS, John Russell Reitano worked at Wooltex, and as a Produce
Specialist for Golub Corporation-Central Markets and Price Chopper, and
Shop Rite; after his much deserved retirement, he enjoyed his job as a
greeter for the Walmart in Halfmoon, New York; and
WHEREAS, Devoted to both his fellow veterans and community, John
Russell Reitano was a member of the Italian Fraternal Hall and Veterans
of Lansingburgh, Past Commander VFW Post 6928, and served on the Family
Day in the Park committee; and
WHEREAS, A talented musician, John Russell Reitano played the bass
and drums and was the band leader of the Dixieland Ambassadors and the
Johnny Rei Trio; he also liked to paint, bowl, golf and play softball;
and
WHEREAS, Above all, John Russell Reitano loved spending time with
his beloved family, especially his three grandchildren, Kate (Chris),
Justin (Nicole), and Nicholas (Ashely); and great-grandchild, Liam; and
WHEREAS, John Russell Reitano died on March 21, 2005, at the age of
79; he was buried with military honors in St. Paul's Cemetery in
Mechanicville; and
WHEREAS, Having exhibited his patriotism both at home and abroad,
John Russell Reitano demonstrated his love for his country and merits
forevermore, the highest respect of his State and Nation; and
WHEREAS, Our Nation's veterans deserve to be recognized, commended
and thanked by the people of the State of New York for their service and
for their dedication to their communities, their State and their Nation;
now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commend John Russell Reitano posthumously upon the occasion of his
designation for special recognition by Rensselaer County at its Honor a
Deceased Veteran Ceremony on August 10, 2020; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the family of John Russell Reitano.
