Assemblyman Robert Smullen (R,C-Mohawk Valley and the Adirondacks) today announced that Governor Kathy Hochul has signed legislation he sponsored into law, dedicating a portion of State Route 28 in the Village of Herkimer as the “War Dog Memorial Highway.”

The bill (A.11290) designates the stretch of Route 28 beginning at its intersection with Canal Access Road and continuing north to its intersection with State Route 5 in honor of the military working dogs who have served alongside American service members.

“There is an extraordinary bond between a handler and their dog,” said Smullen. “I observed these bonds first-hand while deployed overseas. These animals have saved countless lives at great personal risk, and they deserve to be remembered. Naming this stretch of highway the War Dog Memorial Highway is a small but noticeable gesture to honor their service and sacrifice right here in Herkimer County.”

The dedication is ceremonial. The New York State Department of Transportation will install and maintain signs reading “Highway Dedicated to War Dogs.” The official name of the roadway will not change. Assemblyman Smullen was the primary sponsor of the Assembly bill. Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon served as cosponsor.