The regular sessions of the Rensselaer County Legislature are held on the second Tuesday of each month at 6:00 p.m. in:
Legislative Chambers, Second Floor
99 Troy Road
East Greenbush, NY 12061
For additional information, please contact the Majority Office at 518-270-2880
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April 2026 Honor A Deceased Veteran
HONOR-A-DECEASED-VETERAN
April 2026
James R. Welcome
1914 – 1968
FAMILY HISTORY:
James R. Welcome was born on April 18, 1914 in Troy, New York. He grew up in Troy, New York and later lived in Pico Rivera, California. He was the son of the late Joseph and Bridget (Daley) Welcome, and brother to Charles, Lena, Ethel and Gertrude
EDUCATION/HISTORY:
After attending St. Jeans Baptiste School, Troy New York, James proudly enlisted in the United States Army on October 10, 1940 until July 11, 1945 and reenlisted on March 17,1949 until his second separation from the United States Army on August 18,1954 with the rank of Master Sergeant
During an attack against the enemy, the leader of the platoon of which Technical Sergeant Welcome was a member, was seriously wounded and had to be evacuated. Welcome immediately assumed command of the platoon. Demonstrating outstanding courage, repeatedly exposed himself to intense hostile fire to supervise the evacuation of the wounded. Under his courageous leadership the platoon continued to press home its attack and seized the objective
James was awarded the Purple Heart for wounds received in action, World War II Pacific Campaign Medal, 2 Bronze Stars, American Defense Medal, Asiatic Pacific Campaign Medal, Philippine Liberation Ribbon, Glider Badge, Combat infantryman Badge, Commendation Ribbon and Good Conduct Medal
PERSONAL:
James married his wife, Theresa Eva (Herold) Welcome in the year 1931, in Las Angeles where he was employed as a meat cutter and went on to have two children: Carl and Mary Joan
COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES/ORGANIZATIONS:
Sadly, on June 2, 1968, James passed away and was laid to rest at the Resurrection Cemetery, Montebello, Los Angeles, California
Special sessions may also be convened at the request of the Chairperson.
The agenda for a regular session is available on the Thursday preceding the meeting. Members of the public have the opportunity to speak on issues contained in the agenda for one-half hour prior to the opening of the meeting.
We also have a Public Forum night; this is a great opportunity for the Public to make comments to the full Legislative Body. It is held on the Wednesday of the week preceding our regular monthly meeting in Chambers beginning at 6:00 p.m.
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