09-R005

2009 -- S 0001

Enacted 01/06/09

S E N A T E R E S O L U T I O N

HONORING JOHN FRANCIS MCBURNEY, JR.

Introduced By: Senators Connors, McBurney, SEN Ruggerio, DaPonte, and Doyle

Date Introduced: January 06, 2009

     WHEREAS, On January 6th of 1959, The Honorable John F. McBurney, Jr. recited the

oath of office to become a Rhode Island State Senator, and launched a family legacy of public

service that has endured fifty years; and

     WHEREAS, Born in Pawtucket on February 26, 1925, Mr. McBurney enlisted in the

United States Army after graduating from high school. He served with valor and distinction in

Company E, 411th Regiment of the 103rd Division of the Seventh Army. During his years in the

military, Mr. McBurney's courageous actions earned him the highly distinguished Knight's Cross

Legion of Honor, as well as a myriad of medals and awards; and

     WHEREAS, Upon returning to his hometown of Pawtucket, Mr. McBurney enrolled at

Providence College, earning his Bachelor's degree in 1948, and his Juris Doctor from Boston

College Law School in 1951; and

     WHEREAS, During the ensuing years, Mr. McBurney passed the bar, married his lovely

wife Ann, and established his law practice in Pawtucket; and

     WHEREAS, It is often said that the best way to get something done is to ask a busy

person. In the late 1950's Mr. McBurney epitomized that expression. With an ever growing

family and a thriving law practice, he decided to throw his hat in the ring for the District 2 state

senatorial seat; and

     WHEREAS, Easily winning the election, Mr. McBurney held the seat until January of

1975, when his son, John III became his successor; and

     WHEREAS, The Honorable John McBurney, Jr. was a hero during a time in our

country's history when democracy needed defending. He has come to the aid of so many

Pawtucket residents that he is recognized wherever he goes in the city, and he left an indelible

mark on the Rhode Island Senate that still shines today; and

     WHEREAS, John McBurney is eminently deserving of the leadership and trust he has

been afforded during his lifetime, and has fully distinguished himself as a person worthy of our

recognition and admiration; now, therefore be it

     RESOLVED, That this Senate of the State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations

hereby honors John McBurney, Jr. and extends our deepest appreciation for his service to Rhode

Island. We wish him continued success in all his future endeavors; and be it further

     RESOLVED, That the Secretary of State be and he hereby is authorized and directed to

transmit a duly certified copy of this resolution to The Honorable John F. McBurney, Jr.

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LC00222

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