An effort to give tribute to a man they called “Mr. Medford,” Niel M. Marturiello, became a reality with the naming of the Horseblock Road Bridge over the Long Island Expressway.
“We are grateful that the bill l sponsored with Senator Dean Murray to name the bridge in his honor was signed by Governor Hochul (D),” said Assemblyman Joe DeStefano (R-Medford). “He served as a Medford Fire District Commissioner, becoming president, and was a fireman for over fifty years.”
Marturiello fought in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War from 1969 to 1975. Following his service, he commanded the SSG Keith Bishop VFW Post 2937 and the American Legion John R. Cacioppo Post 1848.
When the nation was attacked on 9/11, Marturiello was a Ground Zero responder. Also known as the “Mayor of Medford,” he was an honorary chief of the fire department and volunteered his services to various organizations, including the Medford Chamber of Commerce, where he was president.
As Senator Dean Murray (R-East Patchogue) put it, “It’s safe to say that if it happened in Medford, it’s likely that Niel had a hand in making it happen.”
Marturiello’s tribute was one of six signed by Governor Hochul in memory of individuals whose legacies carry significance to their communities and New York State as a whole.
“By honoring their memories, we forever pay tribute to their lives and the spirit that defines the best of our state,” said Hochul.
Born in Brooklyn in 1948, Marturiello passed away last year at age 75. He was cherished by his wife, Anne Marturiello, and was the loving father of Michael Marturiello, David West, and Jerry West. He was a brother of Carmelina Marturiello and grandfather of Julianna and Michael.
Those traveling on the L.I.E. will see a green plaque honoring the Medford icon.
“It will be a long-lasting reminder of this great man and what he meant to Medford,” said DeStefano, who served with Marturiello as Fire Commissioner.
