Kaminsky Statement Re: Signing Of Steven McDonald Memorial Highway Bill

(Rockville Centre, New York) -- Senator Todd Kaminsky released the following statement regarding the Governor’s signing of a bill to name a portion of the Southern State Parkway in Nassau County the “Detective Steven McDonald Memorial Highway.” (Chap.172)

“Few people possessed the courage and the capacity for forgiveness of Detective McDonald,” said Senator Todd Kaminsky. “I consider it a great honor to have known him. A true hero, and Malverne resident, Steven embodied a grace that is, unfortunately, all too rare. Our children do not have to rely on superhero movies to learn about heroics -- they just need to learn about Detective McDonald.”

Senator Kaminsky sponsored a resolution and bill, J.1963, honoring the life of Detective McDonald, and S6549, which both passed unanimously on June 7, 2017, in the presence of Detective McDonald’s surviving family, including his wife, Mayor of Malverne, Patricia Ann Noris-McDonald, and son, NYPD Sgt. Conor McDonald, who visited Albany for the occasion.

Detective McDonald has been recognized as a national hero for his perseverance after gunshot wounds he received while serving as a member of the New York City Police Department left him paralyzed in July of 1986. His message of hope and forgiveness, most notably to the young man responsible for his wounds, continue to inspire people the world over.

Video of Senator Kaminsky’s comments on the floor of the NYS Senate recognizing the McDonald Family and in support of the legislation can be viewed here. Photos attached.