Senator Charles J. Fuschillo Jr. announced recently that copies of the New York State Governor's 2003 "State of the State" address are now available at his district office. This address is given annually by the governor to members of the legislature and discusses both the past achievements and the future goals for New York State.

This year's "State of the State" focuses on improving education, providing quality health care, implementing statewide safety measures and increasing employment throughout New York State. Those interested in obtaining a copy of the Governor's annual address may call Senator Fuschillo's office at 546-4100 or e-mail him at fuschill@senate.state.ny.us.

Senator Fuschillo now has applications available for two special recognition awards - the Korean War Service Medal for qualified Veterans that served in the Korean War, and the Cold War Recognition Certificate for those that stood ready to serve during the Cold War era.

The Korean War Service Medal is being issued by the South Korean Government and the United States Air Force has been designated the lead agency to receive and distribute the medal. To be eligible for the Korean War Service Medal the Veteran must have served within the territorial limits of South Korea, its airspace, or adjacent waters between June 25, 1950 and July 27, 1953.

The Cold War Recognition Certificate is made available through the Secretary of Defense, and is available to all members of the armed forces and qualified federal government civilian personnel who honorably served the United States during the Cold War era, defined as Sept. 2, 1945 to Dec. 26, 1991.

"I am honored to help the Korean War veterans and those that worked with our government during the Cold War period to receive the awards that they have earned," said Fuschillo. "They are acknowledgements of courage that are much deserved and long overdue. It is never too late for us to recognize our American heroes - those that fought and those that stood by ready to protect our liberties."

In order to receive either honor an acceptable document supporting proof of service is necessary and both honors are available to primary next-of-kin. Those interested in obtaining an application for the Korean War Service Medal or Cold War Recognition Certificate please call Fuschillo's district office at 546-4100 or e-mail fuschill@senate.state.ny.us.