House Resolution 86

(As Adopted by House)

A RESOLUTION REMEMBERING THE GALLANT SERVICE AND COMMENDING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF MR. WILLIAM DAVID MARTIN, PARAMEDIC WITH AMERICAN MEDICAL RESPONSE OF SOUTHWEST MISSISSIPPI, WHO LOST HIS BATTLE WITH COVID-19 ON WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22, 2020, AND EXPRESSING SYMPATHY TO HIS FAMILY AND FRIENDS UPON HIS PASSING.

WHEREAS, it is written in II Corinthians 4:17-18, "For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worked for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal, but the things which are not seen are eternal," and as such, the immaculate author and finisher of our soul's destiny summoned the mortal presence of dearly beloved, William David Martin, to rest eternally, as he has made life's final transition from earthly travailing to heavenly reward, rendering great sorrow and loss to his family and friends; and

WHEREAS, the citizenry of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and Southwest Mississippi, lost a wonderful friend, true public servant with the passing of paramedic David Martin on Wednesday, April 22, 2020, in service to the citizens of Amite, Wilkinson and Adams County, and there is now a hush in our hearts as we come together to pay our respects to the memory of one who has been called to join that innumerable heavenly caravan; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Martin, a resident of Baton Rouge, who joined the AMR team in Natchez seven years ago, and also worked for the AMR operation in Gulfport, possessed a zeal for life that was complimented by his personal determination to do his best in any endeavor undertaken, whether in the aid and assistance of others or the betterment of himself; and

WHEREAS, paramedic Martin, was a man of integral character, who was greatly loved by his family, friends and colleagues, and dedicated himself to the cause of serving others one emergency at a time, and valiantly assumed the selflessness of a hero when applying his life, during these unprecedented times, to protect the lives of others through the payment of the ultimate sacrifice; and

WHEREAS, having extended himself to persevere above and beyond the call of duty, honor and loyalty, "David answered the call at a time when across this country providers get up every single day and pray for protection. They pray as they get into their uniform knowing that, no matter what – THEY ARE THE LINE – and they will hold that line no matter what is on the other side" said Tim Houghton, AMR Southwest Mississippi Operations manager; and

WHEREAS, a true public servant who has laid down his flag and staff of battle to unite with the legions of Heaven's guardians, Mr. Martin will be sorely missed by those who experienced the depth of his love, commitment and compassion for life, but the legacy of his memory will forever be etched in the hearts and memories of his survivors; and

WHEREAS, counted amongst Mississippi's heroes, committed to health, safety and well-being of her citizens, the State of Mississippi shares the immeasurable sentiment of gratitude for all medical professionals and front line defenders, who daily assume the risk of COVID-19 infection while endeavoring to treat those substantially impacted by its presence within our state; and

WHEREAS, we encourage the family to find solace from the overwhelming sadness created by the earthly departure of their beloved family member and be renewed in their faith that Mr. Martin fulfilled the purpose of his appointed time in adherence to the commandment of II Timothy 4:7, by having "fought a good fight, finishing his course and keeping the faith until the hour of his departure was at hand"; and

WHEREAS, Mississippians understand the adversities of life, because we have endured them in the past, and it is with great pride and humility that we recognize the heroic action of this great American and Mississippi servant, as evidenced by the life and merits of Mr. Martin, whose gift to this state was the ultimate sacrifice of life in order that others may have a healthy life:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, That we do hereby remember the gallant service and commend the life and personal sacrifice of paramedic William David Martin of American Medical Response, and extend deepest sympathy to his family and friends upon his passing.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be furnished to the family of Mr. William David Martin and to the members of the Capitol Press Corps.