Assemblywoman Kimberly Jean-Pierre (D-Babylon) announced that her bill to designate a bridge in the town of Babylon as Corporal Tony Casamento Memorial Bridge has passed the Assembly (A.8152-B). The bridge is located on county Route 28 at exit 34 on the Southern State Parkway.

“Cpl. Tony Casamento served this country honorably fighting to protect our freedom,” said Jean-Pierre. “Renaming this bridge in his honor is a reminder of the selfless courage and sacrifices the men and women in our armed forces make on our behalf.”

Anthony Casamento was a member of the United States Marine Corps and served in the Pacific Theatre of Operations during World War II. In November 1942, Casamento was serving as the leader of a machine gun squad when his unit came under attack near the Matanikau River. During the course of this engagement, all members of his section were either killed or wounded and he himself suffered 14 gunshot wounds. In spite of his own injuries, Casamento provided supporting fire and heroically held the enemy at bay until the arrival of reinforcements.

He was awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor, a Purple Heart, The World War II Victory Medal, the American Defense Service Medal, the American Campaign Medal, the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal with two bronze stars and a Presidential Unit Citation for his heroic service.

“Tony Casamento showed unmatched bravery in the face of dangerous circumstances,” said Jean-Pierre. “This memorial will stand as a testament to his fighting spirit and unwavering dedication to defending his country.”