The word hero is often overused, but earlier this week the Town of Clarkstown honored
a man who unquestionably deserves that designation. On Tuesday evening, the corner
of Chauncy Street and Endicott Street in Congers was officially dedicated in honor of Al
Magnatta, a living legend here in the Town of Clarkstown with a truly remarkable lifetime
record of service to his country and our town. Under ordinary circumstances, the honor
of a street dedication is granted posthumously, but Al Magnatta’s impact on our
community is so extraordinary that a decision was made to grant him this honor now,
while he is still actively engaged in the Congers Fire Department just beyond his 100th
birthday. I was joined by members of the Town Council, the Congers Fire Department,
Congressman Mike Lawler’s office, New York State Senator Bill Weber’s office,
Rockland County Legislator Will Kennelly, and a host of Al’s friends and family for this
wonderful celebration of the life of service given to us by this great man.
Al was born in the Village of Nyack 100 years ago. At the age of ten, he moved to
Congers and attended local schools. When he turned 18, Al left high school to enlist in
the United States Army Air Corps. Eventually, he was assigned to serve as a tailgunner
in World War II, flying 25 combat missions and survived being shot down twice! For his
incredible bravery and heroic efforts, Al was awarded two Bronze stars and various
other medals.
Upon discharge in 1946, he came home to Congers, joined the Congers Fire
Department, and settled in with his wife, Matilda, on Chauncy Street. Four children and
nearly 80 years later today, Al continues to serve as the oldest and longest serving
active member in the Congers Fire Department. Al served as Chief from 1960 to 1962,
and also served as the Rockland County Assistant Fire Coordinator for 58 years before
retiring from that role in 2020. In 2022, Al was honored as the VFW Post 9215
Firefighter of the Year. As Town Supervisor, I often check in on fire calls and am always
in awe when I find Al is there offering advice and guidance to officers and the younger
firefighters.
It was a truly special evening as we honored Al with a street dedication with him
standing right beside us. To witness the joy and pride on his face and to see the love
and admiration showered on him by his friends and family was truly an incredible
experience. It was even more poignant as Al had been seriously ill not long ago; and
just as he recovered, his beloved wife, Matilda, passed away. I’m so glad that we were
able to dedicate the street where Al built his home, with Al present and surrounded by
his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. It was an extraordinary evening in
honor of an extraordinary man.
Thank you, Al Magnatta, for all you have given to our country and to our town. You are,
indeed, a true legend and hero.
