KINGS POINT, N.Y., November 12, 2024 - In recognition of Veterans Day, New York Governor Kathy Hochul signed an executive order and new legislation honoring individuals who have served our Nation, including United States Merchant Marine Academy Alumnus Lieutenant Commander Phillip Wayne Johnson, Class of 1984.  She said, “Today, we reaffirm our commitment to the brave men and women who have served our country by ensuring their legacy lives on in communities across New York,” 

The newly enacted legislation S.6715-B/A.9578, designates the bridge on State Route 109 over the Southern State Parkway in Babylon as the “‘Lieutenant Commander Phillip Wayne Johnson Memorial Bridge.” The executive order reads, “Lieutenant Commander Phillip Wayne Johnson served his state, his country and his community on Long Island for his entire life. He graduated from the US Merchant Marine Academy and served in the reserves until his honorable discharge in 2001. During his service, he developed Navy Training plans for the Naval Landing Ship tank program, the Naval Reserve Ocean-going Mine Sweeper program and the Naval Reserve Naval Embarked Advisory Teams programs. Following his service, he worked as an engineer designing projects such as the Sunrise Highway project and later working for over a decade for NYCHA. In recognition of his contribution to his country and community, the NYS Route 109 Bridge over Southern State Parkway in the Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk shall be dedicated in his honor as the ‘Lieutenant Commander Phillip Wayne Johnson Memorial Bridge.’”

State Senator Monica R. Martinez, who represents New York’s 4th Senate District, covering part of Suffolk County, Long Island, spoke on the significance of the tribute: “Lieutenant Commander Phillip Wayne Johnson was a man who dedicated his life to service, both in uniform and in the community he loved. Naming this bridge in his honor on Veterans Day is a fitting tribute to a man whose legacy of integrity and kindness should be remembered by all who pass through this route. I thank the Governor for signing this legislation, which reminds us of the lasting impact those who serve have on freedom and in the lives of their neighbors.”

Lieutenant Commander Johnson, who graduated in 1984, with an unlimited United States Coast Guard Third Mate's License and a Bachelor of Science in Marine Transportation, died in 2017.