Today, Assemblyman Joseph Angelino (R,C-Norwich) joined Town of Walton Supervisor Joe Cetta, and Assemblyman Chris Tague (R,C-Schoharie) for the unveiling of the “1LT Stephen H. Doane Memorial Bridge.” Lt. Doane is the recipient of the Medal of Honor, the most prestigious military honor that can be bestowed upon a U.S. service member. Lt. Doane earned this honor posthumously by valiantly giving his life to save his fellow soldiers and take out an enemy bunker during the Vietnam War. Lt. Doane is buried at Arlington National Cemetery. A memorial was also presented to the family of Lt. Doane.

“Lt. Doane is an American hero, plain and simple, and naming this bridge after him is the least we can do as a thankful state and nation. I am very proud to be the Assembly sponsor of the legislation responsible for renaming this bridge. I also want to thank the Senate sponsor, former Sen. Martucci, whose hard work is greatly appreciated. I truly hope this bridge serves as a living memory of Lt. Doane. We must always remember those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our great nation, and this act of renaming a bridge to honor Lt. Doane should work to do just that,” said Angelino.

“I am Honored and Humbled to be a part of the dedication for Lieutenant Doane. I want to thank Assemblyman Angelino and former Senator Martucci for their hard work in sponsoring the Bill. Lt. Doane, a Walton native and the only Medal of Honor recipient from Delaware County is a true American Hero. He will forever be remembered,” said Cetta.

“Every man and woman who wears a United States military uniform sacrifices for our nation and our way of life, some, like Lieutenant Stephen Doane, make the ultimate sacrifice.It is my humble honor to help keep his memory alive and ensure that others know what Stephen Doane meant to his hometown of Walton and his country.My thanks to Assemblyman Angelino, former Senator Martucci, and the Town of Walton for coming together to establish this well-deserved honor for a true American hero.As motorists travel across this bridge and see the signs commemorating Lieutenant Doane I hope they are reminded of his valor, courage, and service to our nation,” said Senator Peter Oberacker, who could not attend the ceremony.