25 LC 112 3617
Senate Resolution 531
By: Senators Hickman of the 4th, Burns of the 23rd, Watson of the 1st, Tillery of the 19th
and Mallow of the 2nd
A RESOLUTION
Recognizing and honoring Freedom, the live bald eagle mascot of Georgia Southern
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University; and for other purposes.2
WHEREAS, Freedom, a male Southern bald eagle, became an integral part of Georgia3
Southern University in 2004 after being rescued from a nest in Maitland, Florida, where he4
sustained a permanent beak injury that prevented his release into the wild; and5
WHEREAS, with the permission of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, Georgia6
Southern University provided Freedom with a home at the Center for Wildlife Education and7
the Lamar Q. Ball Jr. Raptor Center, where he served as a living symbol of the university's8
spirit and commitment to wildlife conservation; and9
WHEREAS, Freedom inspired thousands annually through his majestic flights at Georgia10
Southern sporting events, including the cherished tradition of soaring over Allen E. Paulson11
Stadium before home football games as well as appearances at the Savannah St. Patrick's12
Day Parade, commencement ceremonies, and various educational and community events13
across the State of Georgia and the nation; and14
S. R. 531
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WHEREAS, through his role as an ambassador for wildlife education, Freedom contributed
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significantly to the university's mission by engaging individuals of all ages in learning about16
wildlife care, conservation, and the importance of preserving our natural heritage; and17
WHEREAS, Freedom's presence embodied the strength, resilience, and unity of Eagle18
Nation, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of students, alumni, faculty, and the broader19
community; and20
WHEREAS, on March 29, 2025, Freedom passed away, leaving behind a legacy of21
inspiration, education, and pride that will be remembered and cherished for generations to22
come.23
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE that the members of this body24
recognize and honor the life and contributions of Freedom, the esteemed live bald eagle25
mascot of Georgia Southern University, and express their deepest condolences upon his26
passing.27
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Secretary of the Senate is authorized and directed28
to make an appropriate copy of this resolution available for distribution to Georgia Southern29
University.30
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