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Monday, September 2, 2013

STATEMENT OF MAYOR MICHAEL R. BLOOMBERG ON DEATH OF STAFF SERGEANT MICHAEL H. OLLIS

"Today, we are mourning the loss of a New Yorker who volunteered to put himself in harm's way to protect the freedoms we all enjoy. A native Staten Islander, Staff Sergeant Michael Ollis volunteered to serve our country after graduating high school and was already a decorated member of the U.S. Army at only 24 years old. Tragically, he gave his last full measure of devotion in protecting his country, and our freedoms, in Afghanistan earlier this week. As New Yorkers, we owe a special debt of gratitude to those who serve in our military, because New York City is in many ways America's greatest symbol of freedom. 

"Since 9/11, 92 New Yorkers who joined our military have given their lives to preserve the values and liberties that made us a target for terrorists that day. As long as the ideals they fought and died to protect are threatened, we will continue to rely on the bravery and sacrifice of young men and women like Staff Sergeant Ollis to preserve and protect them. Our prayers are with his grieving family and friends, and may God bless Sergeant Ollis and all those who continue to serve our nation." 


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