The Troopers Memorial Fund, working with the lead support of State Assemblywoman Jody Giglio and her colleagues, State Senator Anthony Palumbo, State Assemblyman Fred Thiele, State Senator Monica Martinez and State Assemblyman Keith Brown, has been successful in our efforts to get five bridge overpasses named in the honor of 5 of our 17 heroes. Our efforts are continuing to accomplish this for all 17 who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving the people of the Sate of New York. Many thanks to all those who have worked tirelessly in this effort. Below are some photos of the events.
NYSP contingent along with families of our honored heroes and other special guests at ceremony at SP Riverside barracks
Family members of Trooper Martin J. Kerins, EOW 08/23/38, along with Troop L members, Troopers Memorial Fund Trustees and dignitaries on the Southern State Pkwy. at the Wellwood Ave. overpass, Town of Babylon, NY
Family of Trooper Donald A. Strand, EOW 09/28/1060, with Senator Palumbo and NYSP family with bridge overpass sign in our hero’s name which was later erected along Sunrise Hwy. and Peconic Rd., Town of Southampton
Family of Trooper Thomas J. Consorte, EOW 11/23/1987, with Assemblywoman Giglio and NYSP family with bridge overpass sign in our hero’s name which was later erected on the LIE overpass at St. Rt. 25, Town of Riverhead
Family of Trooper Jose A. Rosado, EOW 01/24/2007, with Assemblyman Fred Thiele and NYSP family with bridge overpass sign in our hero’s name which was later erected on Sunrise Hwy. and Speonk-Riverhead Rd., Town of Southampton
Below is a press release from Assemblyman Keith Brown from the NYS 12th Assembly District regarding the August 2025 bridge dedications:
Yesterday, NYS Senator Monica Martinez, NYS Assemblywoman Jodi Giglio and I paid tribute to Trooper Fabio Buttitta and Trooper Thomas M. O’Neill. Your service will never be forgotten.
Bridges are built to last,—and same with honor. These bridge naming will ensure that the courage of these two troopers will echo for generations.
I am Assemblyman Keith Brown and I represent the 12th Assembly District of New York State where we are standing today.
I am both humbled and honored to be here as we dedicate both the Trooper Fabio Buttitta Memorial Bridge and the Senior Investigator Thomas M. O’Neill Memorial Bridge, and I would like express my gratitude to the Troopers Memorial Fund for giving me this chance to say a few words.
I also want to thank Senator Monica Martinez for co-sponsoring the bills that provided for these dedications and my dear friend Assemblywoman Jodi Giglio for her commitment over the past years to making sure that all of Troopers who died in the line of duty are properly remembered!
As each of us knows that those who serve in law enforcement are the true heroes in the world. It is their unwavering dedication and service to others that fills us with awe.
We know that Fabio and Thomas and the men and women they worked with are all true heroes, putting their lives on the line every time they go out on duty.
Growing up, I used to watch Hill Street Blues all the time on tv and every episode, Sarge would say at the end of every Precinct meeting. He would finish by saying, “Now let’s be careful out there!” I always think of that whenever I see an officer or trooper in uniform.
Our State can never repay them or their families for the sacrifices they gave, but these two bridges will serve as a symbol of our appreciation, our gratitude, and stand as a testament of the honor with which both Fabio Buttitta and Thomas M. O’Neill served every time we drive past.
Thank you.
To all law enforcement officers who protect and serve, we extend our gratitude. We will continue our advocacy so that you are safe and you can continue to protect us. Thank you!
Below is Troopers Memorial Fund VP and Ret. NYSP Investigator Lawrence A. Shewark, along with Troop L Major Stephen J. Udice and bridge dedication bill sponsors at the SP Brentwood memorial recently built by the Troopers Memorial Fund.
Family, friends, bill sponsors and Troop L members at the Aug. 2025 bridge dedication in honor of Sr. Investigator Thomas M. O’Neill
Family, friends, bill sponsors and Troop L members at the Aug. 2025 bridge naming in honor of Trooper Fabio Buttitta
