A concurrent RESOLUTION

 

TO HONOR AND RECOGNIZE Retired Master Sergeant Alfonso J. Boyd FOR Being Named the 2025-2026 South Carolina Veteran of the Year for his MANY YEARS OF DISTINGUISHED SERVICE to Chester County, the State of South Carolina, and the nation.

 

Whereas, the members of the South Carolina General Assembly are pleased to recognize Retired Army Master Sergeant, Alfonso J. Boyd, as the 2025-2026 South Carolina Veteran of the Year. The Veteran of the Year award serves as recognition from the South Carolina Department of Veterans' Affairs to honor the remarkable contributions of veterans in the State; and

 

Whereas, a native of Chester, Master Sergeant Boyd served with distinction in the United States Army for twenty-two years; and

 

Whereas, Master Sergeant Boyd returned to his hometown and established the successful Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps programs at Great Falls, Lewisville, and Chester High Schools. He served Chester County for over twelve years in that capacity, expanding the minds and experiences of his students; and

 

Whereas, a civic leader, Master Sergeant Boyd has served with many community organizations, including the James D. Wessinger Chapter 19 of Disabled American Veterans. A twenty-year member of the organization, he has served as commander for over ten years. He led the chapter through difficult times, including the loss of a past commander by suicide during the COVID-19 pandemic. Master Sergeant Boyd planned and executed excellent veterans programs, including Quilt of Valor ceremonies, "Dinner with a General" ceremonies celebrating three native Chester County Generals, the first ever "Vietnam Veteran Widow" recognition ceremony, and seven years of Memorial and Veterans Day events; and

 

Whereas, an active member of the Chester community, Master Sergeant Boyd also supports the county's voting registration efforts and partners with local businesses to assist citizens in need. He has helped Chester County veterans in receiving over one million dollars in benefits; and

 

Whereas, given his many years of distinguished service, Master Sergeant Boyd has received many awards, including the WCNC Hyundai Hometown Hero Award in July 2024; and

 

Whereas, a devout Christian, Master Sergeant Boyd established and continues to sponsor the local "Ride For Jesus" Motorcycle Sunday held yearly in Chester County. He works actively in the church to motivate and guide youth to become productive citizens of the county and society; and

 

Whereas, in his free time, Master Sergeant Boyd maintains a stable home environment for family while celebrating the accomplishments of his favorite people, his grandchildren; and

 

Whereas, the members of the South Carolina General Assembly appreciate the dedicated service of Master Sergeant Boyd.  Now, therefore,

 

Be it resolved by the Senate, the House of Representatives concurring:

 

That the members of the South Carolina General Assembly, by this resolution, honor and recognize retired Master Sergeant Alfonso J. Boyd for being named the 2025-2026 South Carolina Veteran of the Year and commend him for his many years of distinguished service to Chester County, the State of South Carolina, and the nation.

 

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be presented to Master Sergeant Alfonso J. Boyd.

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