Assemblyman Brian Maher (R,C-Walden) announced that legislation establishing the Steve Nicoli Memorial Highway passed in both the Senate and the Assembly. Steve Nicoli lived a life of public service and dedication to his community and country. As an Army veteran, Steve served our nation with honor and distinction. Upon completing his service, he spent his time honoring American veterans by assisting local veterans in need and eventually establishing the Hudson Valley Honor Flight in 2011, working with then-Mayor of Walden Brian Maher.

In 2021, Steve passed away suddenly, but his impact continues to be felt today through the honor flight and countless other selfless endeavors he was a part of. The stretch of road to be named in his honor is the road every honor flight escort takes as they enter New York–Stewart International Airport. Naming this roadway in Steve’s honor will forever memorialize his lifetime of service to our veterans and their families.

“The passage of this legislation is very personal to me,” said Maher. “Steve was a patriot, a partner in community service and a dear friend. While there was a group of us that co-founded Hudson Valley Honor Flight, Steve was the heart and soul behind the project and the true founder of the organization. Over 10 years later, Hudson Valley Honor Flight continues to grow and have a profound impact on veterans, their families and communities throughout the entire Hudson Valley region and tri-state area. This legislation will ensure future generations always know the Hudson Valley Honor Flight program never would have happened without the vision and dedication of Steve Nicoli.”

“Our hearts ache every day for the loss our family has endured. Steve was a father, brother, son, friend, fiancé and so much more to so many. Aside from being a father, Steve’s service to our country and his passion and appreciation for other veterans was his driving force in life. Steve woke up every day and wanted to honor and serve other veterans. Words cannot express how thankful we are to Assemblyman Brian Maher, Sen. Rob Rolison and all those who helped make this dedication to Steve’s memory possible. Nothing will ever ease the pain we feel but naming this particular section of state highway has such a special meaning to us and the entire honor flight family. This legislation being passed helps our family fill a void in our hearts with thoughts of celebrating a life well lived,” said the Nicoli Family.

Since June of 2012, Hudson Valley Honor Flight has had over 30 successful honor flight missions, serving over 2,000 World War II, Korean and Vietnam veterans as well as terminally ill veterans who have served in other conflicts. Hudson Valley Honor Flight Headquarters is still based on Main Street in the Village of Walden and continues to serve thousands of Hudson Valley veterans and their families through their flight day operations, volunteer opportunities and more.