Assemblyman Joe DeStefano (R,C-Medford) and Sen. Dean Murray (R,C-3rd District) hosted a ceremony yesterday at the Medford Fire Department to designate a portion of the state highway system as the “Medford FD Commissioner Niel Marturiello Memorial Bridge,” located on Horseblock Road, also known as County Road 16, which crosses Interstate Route 495. Also in attendance were Legislator Dominick Thorne, Legislator Nick Caracappa, Councilman Neil Foley and Councilman Mike Loguercio, as well as representatives from the Medford Taxpayers Civic Association, Medford Chamber of Commerce and SSG Keith Bishop VFW Post 2937.

This ceremonial designation honored the late Niel Marturiello, a decorated war hero and a beloved figure in the Medford community. Marturiello dedicated more than 50 years of service to the Medford Fire Department and made significant contributions to local organizations and rescue efforts, including participation in the 9/11 recovery operations.

“We are thankful to Gov. Hochul for signing our legislation to name this bridge in memory of Niel,” said Assemblyman Joe DeStefano. “Niel was a veteran, a fireman and a community leader for more than five decades, making him more than deserving of this special recognition. He was affectionately known as ‘Mr. Medford’—and rightfully so. His commitment to both his country and his community is unmatched, and this memorial will serve as a lasting testament to his legacy.”

Sen. Dean Murray said, “When you lose someone who is so beloved and who has done so much for his country and his community, you want to make sure that he and his deeds are remembered for generations to come. Niel Marturiello was that person for the Medford community. In addition to being a dear, personal friend of mine, Niel was a decorated veteran, a member and commissioner in the Medford FD for more than 50 years, was a responder to the September 11 terrorist attacks and volunteered his services to various community organizations like the Medford Chamber of Commerce, the SSG Keith Bishop VFW Post 2937 and the American Legion John R. Cacioppo Post 1848. It’s how he earned his nickname ‘Mr. Medford.’ This is why it’s so important that we dedicate and name the Horseblock Road bridge over the L.I.E. as the ‘Medford FD Commissioner Niel Marturiello Memorial Bridge,’ to recognize and honor the legacy of a man who truly dedicated his life to the service of others.”

“A decorated war hero, 9/11 first responder and volunteer firefighter, Commissioner Niel Marturiello exemplified the best of our nation’s spirit,” said County Executive Ed Romaine. “The Commissioner Niel Marturiello Memorial Bridge will stand as an enduring reminder of this formidable man.”

“Niel Marturiello cared deeply for his community of Medford, his fire department and his neighbors. Although his life ended prematurely, his legacy will live on with this tribute,” said Brookhaven Town Supervisor Dan Panico.

“As a member of the Suffolk County Legislature’s Veterans Committee, I am always amazed by the veterans in our community,” said Suffolk County Legislator Dominick Thorne. “Niel Marturiello was a gleaming example of those who served, returned home and continued to serve in our community. Mr. Marturiello, who I called Mr. Medford, was involved in every public function with donations of his time. Whether it was with the Chamber of Commerce or the Medford Fire Department, I am grateful to have had the humbling experience of getting to know him and calling him my friend. I thank Assemblyman Joe DeStefano for his tireless efforts in renaming a section of road on behalf of this pillar of our community.”

Councilman Neil Foley said, “Niel Marturiello was a true servant of his country and community. A Vietnam veteran, honorary chief of the Medford Fire Department, commander with the VFW and American Legion and past president of the Medford Chamber of Commerce, Niel was known to many as the ‘Mayor of Medford.’ His dedication and leadership touched countless lives, and this sign stands as a tribute to his remarkable legacy.”