Monroe NY News

Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C-Batavia) and Senator George Borrello will dedicate a portion of State Route 77 between Broadway Road and Sumner Road in Darien as the "Sgt. Terry James Garigen Memorial Highway." The proposal (A.8147-A), sponsored by Hawley and Borrello, was signed into law by Governor Hochul this week to honor Sgt. Terry James Garigen.

Sgt. Garigen began his military service in the U.S. Army in 1969 and received numerous accolades, including the Vietnam Service Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, and the Bronze and Silver Star Medals.

The unveiling ceremony is scheduled for Tuesday, August 13 at 10 a.m. at 10537 Alleghany Road in Darien Center. Both legislators expressed their pride in honoring Sgt. Garigen and hope that his story will inspire others across New York.

“Sgt. Terry James Garigen was an American hero who served his country honorably, and dedicating this highway is just one small way for our community to say thanks for his many years of service and sacrifice,” said Hawley. “I want to thank Sen. Borrello for cosponsoring this proposal and I hope Sgt. Garigen’s legacy will live as a constant reminder of the American spirit he embodied as he selflessly served our nation.”

“Sgt. Garigen’s military service and his life are a testament to the quality of his character. His combat tour in Vietnam took him to the other side of the world, required him to patrol dense jungles on foot and survive guerrilla warfare,” said Borrello. “He faced these challenges with patriotism and determination, earning the most esteemed military decorations for his courage and service to our nation. He brought the same level of dedication to his civilian life, serving the residents of the Town of Darien for decades and supporting fellow veterans as a Patriot Guard Rider. Assemblyman Hawley and I are both proud to pay tribute to him to ensure his legacy is not forgotten.”