Vermont HCR 15: House concurrent resolution honoring James Hathaway for his dedication to improving the lives of children

Bill Text

R-20 Page 1 of 1
2025

VT LEG #382036 v.1
No. R-20. House concurrent resolution congratulating former Bennington Acting
Police Chief Wally Mattison on his centennial birthday.
(H.C.R.15)
Offered by Representatives Morrissey of Bennington, Cooper of Pownal, Corcoran of
Bennington, Durfee of Shaftsbury, Greer of Bennington, Hunter of Manchester, James of
Manchester, Nigro of Bennington, and Pinsonault of Dorset
Offered by Senators Bongartz and Plunkett
Whereas, Wally Mattison, whose illustrious service on behalf of his nation and
hometown is highly noteworthy, and he is greatly admired in Bennington, and
Whereas, he was born on September 5, 1924 in Bennington, growing up in a large
family with seven siblings, and
Whereas, in 1943, during the height of World War II, teenager Wally Mattison was
inducted into the U.S. Army, and
Whereas, in March 1944, upon completion of light machine-gunner training, he was
deployed to the European Theater of Operations and assigned to the 29th Infantry
Division, landing in France shortly after D-Day and serving as a frontline participant in
the Normandy Campaign, and
Whereas, on September 12, 1944, Wally Mattison sustained a bullet wound to his
lower back and was awarded both a Purple Heart and later the French Medal of Honor—
that nation’s highest civil and military decoration, and
Whereas, near the conclusion of hostilities in Europe, he served in Germany, behind
enemy lines, and was assigned the duty of checking houses for weapons and soldiers, and
Whereas, following his honorable military discharge, Wally Mattison returned home
to Bennington, embarking on a distinguished 40-year career as a member of the
Bennington Police Department, rising to the rank of captain, and retiring as the
department’s much respected acting chief, and
Whereas, in September 2024, a festive celebration, including his children,
grandchildren, and great-grandchildren; co-workers; and many friends, was held at the
Bennington Elks Club on the occasion of his 100th birthday, and
Whereas, at the event, the Bennington Sheriff announced the establishment of an
annual $1,000 scholarship in Wally Mattison’s honor to be awarded to a deserving
recipient aspiring to a law enforcement career, now therefore be it
Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives:
That the General Assembly congratulates former Bennington Acting Police Chief
Wally Mattison on his centennial birthday, and be it further
Resolved: That the Secretary of State be directed to send a copy of this resolution to
Wally Mattison.