2026 SESSION

INTRODUCED

26109589D

SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 144

Offered March 12, 2026

Commending the veterans of the United States Armed Forces from Augusta County.

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Patron—Obenshain

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WHEREAS, the veterans of the United States Armed Forces from Augusta County hail from a distinguished military tradition that dates to the formation of Augusta County in the mid-18th century, when colonial militia units were organized to defend early settlers of the Shenandoah Valley; and

WHEREAS, since the American Revolution, Augusta County's veterans have served valiantly to secure the nation's freedom and independence and to advance the principles of liberty, democracy, and equality for all; and

WHEREAS, during World War I, many veterans from Augusta County served in the 116th Regiment of the 29th Infantry Division of the United States Army, or the United States Marine Corps, or the United States Navy, helping to secure the Allied victory in Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and the Pacific; and

WHEREAS, veterans of Augusta County are among the many servicemen who either served or made the ultimate sacrifice to secure victory for the Allies in World War II; in particular, on June 6, 1944, the 116th Infantry Regiment landed on Omaha Beach in France during Operation Overlord, enduring staggering losses to achieve an important foothold that would ultimately lead to the liberation of Western Europe; and

WHEREAS, veterans of Augusta County have served the country with honor and distinction in subsequent conflicts of the 20th and 21st centuries, including in Korea and Vietnam and during the Cold War and the Global War on Terror; and

WHEREAS, the Augusta County Military Memorial is being established to honor and commemorate the more than 4,000 veterans from Augusta County, Staunton, and Waynesboro who gave their lives to protect the freedoms enjoyed by all citizens of the Commonwealth; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the Senate of Virginia, That the veterans of the United States Armed Forces from Augusta County hereby be commended for their legacy of courage, service, and sacrifice; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of Senate prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to the veterans of the United States Armed Forces from Augusta County as an expression of the Senate of Virginia's admiration and gratitude for their contributions to Augusta County, the Commonwealth, and the nation.