SENATE MEMORIAL 25

50th legislature - STATE OF NEW MEXICO - first session, 2011

INTRODUCED BY

William H. Payne

A MEMORIAL

CALLING UPON THE SENATE TO SALUTE THE OFFICERS AND CREW OF THE USS NEW MEXICO, TO COMMEND THE DEDICATION AND DILIGENCE OF THE HOME STATE SUPPORT TEAM AND TO HONOR THE UNITED STATES NAVAL SUBMARINE FORCE IN SECURING AND MAINTAINING UNDERSEA SUPREMACY FOR THE UNITED STATES.

     WHEREAS, on March 27, 2010, the nuclear-powered submarine USS New Mexico was commissioned into the fleet as a key sea power resource in executing the United States navy's core missions, in deterring those who seek to engage the United States in war, in safeguarding the United States' democratic freedoms and in ensuring the nation's economic well-being by protecting United States interests throughout the world; and

     WHEREAS, with the best-trained submarine crew and the installation of the latest systems to support undersea warfare and special operations, the USS New Mexico is the platform of choice in meeting combat requirements; and

     WHEREAS, New Mexico is most grateful to have been honored by a second namesake warship to continue the legacy left by our great battleship, the USS New Mexico, now featured in a USS New Mexico exhibit at the New Mexico history museum in Santa Fe; and

     WHEREAS, naming a submarine "USS New Mexico" is a tribute to all New Mexicans who have served, or are serving, in the armed forces of the United States; and

     WHEREAS, through the navy league of the United States' New Mexico council and the Albuquerque Hispano chamber of commerce, officers and crew of the USS New Mexico receive tremendous support, including visits to the state, enhancements to onboard living quarters, recognition of top sailors of the quarter and of the year and statewide publicity; and

     WHEREAS, the commanding officer of the USS New Mexico, Commander George Perez, Jr., has embraced a New Mexico theme in the decor of the submarine crew's mess, known as "La Posta Abajo del Mar" after the restaurant La Posta de Mesilla near Las Cruces, New Mexico;

     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE OF THE STATE OF NEW MEXICO that it salute the officers and crew of the USS New Mexico, commend the dedication and diligence of the home state support team and honor the United States naval submarine force in securing and maintaining undersea supremacy for the United States; and

     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that copies of this memorial be transmitted to members of the New Mexico congressional delegation; the United States navy commander, submarine force; the commanding officer of the USS New Mexico; the secretary of veterans' services; and the governor.

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