Senator Lee Zeldin: NYS Names Bridge for Local Veteran

July 3, 2014 Contact: Kara Cumoletti (518) 455-3570  cumolett@nysenate.gov

Senator Lee Zeldin: NYS Names Bridge for Local Veteran  

ALBANY—Senator Lee M. Zeldin (R,C—Shirley) announced today that his bill to designate a local bridge as the “Sgt. Michael J. Esposito Jr. Memorial Bridge" has been signed into law. The bill (S.6582-A), aims to honor the heroism of a local veteran, Sgt. Michael J. Esposito, who gave his life while deployed to Kandahar, Afghanistan.

A Brentwood native, Sgt. Esposito enlisted in the Armed Forces immediately following high school and was quick to voluntarily reenlist following the 2001 terrorist attacks. 

According to the military’s Bronze Star Narrative accounting of the events leading to his death, Sgt. Esposito was mortally wounded during combat with anti-coalition militants when he courageously took to the front of his team, despite hostile fire. It was noted in the same document that his actions on that day were “instrumental in ensuring success for his company and Task Force.” 

“Sgt. Michael Esposito Jr., selflessly sacrificed his life in Afghanistan while leading his team in combat under direct enemy fire. He represents the very best of what it means to be an American Soldier.” said Senator Zeldin.

“It is my hope that naming this bridge in his honor will not only keep his heroic legacy alive, but will serve as an inspiration for proud Long Islanders. Let it be a constant reminder of the sacrifices made by our servicemen and women who risk their lives to protect our hard earned freedoms and liberties.”   

The bridge to be memorialized is located on Washington Avenue which crosses over the Long Island Expressway.

The bill was sponsored in the Assembly by Assemblyman Phil Ramos (D—Bay Shore) who said, “I am humbled to honor Sgt. Michael J. Esposito Jr. by renaming the Washington Avenue Bridge over the LIE in Brentwood in his memory.  Sgt. Esposito was truly one of Brentwood’s local heroes, having re-enlisted in the Army after the events of 9/11 to defend the freedoms we hold dearly as Americans.  Tragically, he lost his life in the line of fire on March, 18th 2004.  His heroism, bravery and selfless dedication to duty represents the valor that is the American soldier.” 

The bill was signed into law today by Governor Andrew Cuomo.

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