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Benjamin Francis Nolan was born in Manhattan on June 22, 1917, the son of Irish immigrants. Raised in Yorkville and a graduate of Regis High School, Judge Nolan attended law school at night and was awarded the Law Review Gold Key in 1950 by St. John's Law School.
He served with honor during World War II, and was awarded the Army Commendation Medal. After the war Judge Nolan served as commander of the Van Nest Post of the American Legion. He was also founder and president of the Van Nest Little League and president of the Van Nest Civic Association.
Judge Nolan was appointed to the Civil Court by Mayor John Lindsay in December, 1971 and was elected to a full 10-year term in 1972. He was re-elected in 1982, but due to an age restriction was forced to retire in December 1987 at the age of 70. Judge Nolan continued in public service after being appointed a member of the City Council Redistricting Commission. He later served as a Judicial Hearing Officer until his death on April 18, 1996, at the age of 78.
In recognition of Judge Benjamin F. Nolan's many years of service and commitment to New York City, it is fitting that Williamsbridge Road between Pelham Parkway South and Morris Park Avenue be re-named "Judge Benjamin F. Nolan Way."
For the reasons previously stated, I will now sign the bill.