Renames the Governor Mario M. Cuomo bridge the Lieutenant Michael P. Murphy Tappan Zee bridge

◆ The sponsor's argument

Why Steve Rhoads says this is needed

The current name of the Tappan Zee Bridge has never been accepted by New Yorkers. It would be more fitting instead to name the bridge in honor of one of the greatest heroes to ever come out of this state, a Long Island Native, Lieutenant Michael P. Murphy. Although a movie has been made about Michael Murphy and his Navy SEAL team which is the most decorated in history, it merely scratches the surface of the selflessness and bravery displayed by this American hero. Known in his youth as "The protector", Lieutenant Michael P. Murphy began his life of dedication to protecting others as early as 8th grade. When Murphy saw bullies putting a special needs student into a locker, he stepped in, Michael warded them off, protecting his peer. Similarly he stopped an attack on a homeless man, showing a glimpse of his self- less nature before he had even left grade school. After graduating college with honors and a double major, he walked away from multiple law school offers to become a Navy SEAL. Knowing he was heading into combat in Afghanistan shortly, Murphy obtained the patch of FDNY Engine Co. 53, Ladder Co. 43, to honor the 9/11 attacks and a personal friend he lost that day, while he risked his life for his coun- try. In Operation Red Wings, Michael Murphy and three other Navy SEALS were tasked with a recon mission to surveil the Taliban leader of the "Moun- tain Tigers." After being discovered deep in enemy territory, this group of four American Navy SEALS was surrounded immediately by almost 40 enemy fighters. The terrain did not allow for the men to get a call out for backup or rescue, seeing no other option, Lieutenant Michael P. Murphy chose to make one of the most heroic sacrifices in our military's history. Leaving cover, Murphy walked into open ground to get the recep- tion to call for rescue, knowing with certainty it would be a fatal sacrifice. Despite being shot and dropping the phone, he was able to defiantly pick the phone back up, signing off with "Thank you." He continued fighting from his position until he became mortally wounded, using every last bit of strength to carry on the defense of his team once he had called in for backup. Posthumously awarded the medal of honor, or nation nation's highest military award, we here in New York can pay tribute to this national hero, and restore the legacy of the Tappan Zee bridge, by renaming the landmark the "Lieutenant Michael P. Murphy Tappan Zee Bridge."

This is the sponsor's own case for the bill, quoted from their memorandum. It is not Agora's description of what the bill does.