Dedicates a portion of the state highway system to Specialist Thomas Edwin Beglinger

◆ The sponsor's argument

Why George Borrello says this is needed

Specialist Thomas Edwin Beglinger was born and raised in the Attica, New York area. He was one of six children of Robert G. Beglinger and Mabel Edith Glor, with three brothers and three sisters. A 1962 graduate of Attica High School, he was a member of the National Honor Society and went on to complete his studies at Alfred Agricultural & Technical Institute. He was inducted into the United States Army on August 25, 1965. Specialist Thomas Edwin Beglinger distinguished himself through extraor- dinary heroism on October 2, 1966, while serving with his company during a battalion-size sweep near the village of Ong Truong in Vietnam. During the operation, one of the company elements came under intense fire after encountering the perimeter defenses of a Viet Cong base camp. In the initial engagement, both the platoon leader and his radio-tele- phone operator were severely wounded and left lying in a minefield. Recognizing the immediate danger to his fellow soldiers, Specialist Beglinger unhesitatingly moved toward them. As he advanced, he was subjected to heavy sniper and grenade fire, yet he continued with unwav- ering determination. Upon reaching the two wounded soldiers, he began administering first aid while still under intense hostile fire. Special- ist Beglinger continued rendering lifesaving assistance until he was mortally wounded. The remarkable courage and profound selflessness displayed by Specialist Beglinger exemplifies the highest ideals of military service. His will- ingness to risk and ultimately sacrifices, his life to aid his comrades reflects great honor upon himself, the 1st Infantry Division, and the United States Army. For his gallantry in action, he was posthumously awarded the Silver Star. Additional Commendations and Awards: Purple Heart Combat Infantryman Badge Marksmanship Badge National Defense Service Medal Vietnam Service Medal Vietnam Campaign Medal Army Presidential Unit Citation Vietnam Gallantry Cross

This is the sponsor's own case for the bill, quoted from their memorandum. It is not Agora's description of what the bill does.