| Contact: | Sunny Mindel / Michael Anton (212) 788-2958 |
The next bill before me, Introductory Number 751, sponsored by Council Members O'Donovan, DiBrienza, Fiala and Golden, would name Front Street, between Thompson and Wave Streets in Staten Island, as Commodore John Barry Boulevard.
John Barry was born in 1745 in County Wexford, Ireland. He began his career in the United States as a ship's cabin boy. In 1766, he obtained his first naval command aboard the schooner Barbadoes. Later he served aboard the Black Prince and was given the task of outfitting the first ships of the Continental Navy.
In March 1776, he was given a Captain's commission in the Continental Navy and went on to command several ships. On June 5, 1794, John Barry was named the senior captain of the new United States Navy.
John Barry died on September 12, 1803. He is regarded as the Father of the United States Navy.
Therefore, in honor of this naval hero, it is fitting that Front Street, between Thompson and Wave Streets, be known as Commodore John Barry Boulevard.
For the reasons previously stated, I will now sign the bill.