Governor signs legislative package dedicating parts of New York highway system to veterans

ALBANY, N.Y. (Nov. 11, 2022) – Governor Kathy Hochul has signed a legislative package dedicating portions of the New York state highway system to veterans, including an officer who was integral to the 10th Mountain Division (Light Infantry).

"We owe a great debt to New York's veterans who have always answered the call to protect and serve," Hochul said. "These highway dedications help us recognize and honor the contributions and sacrifices of New York's heroes and will ensure that their legacies live on for generations."

Col. Michael Plummer adj. wb.jpgLegislation (S.8726A/A.10024-A) designates a portion of the State Route 283 in Jefferson County, from beginning in the town of Pamelia at the Watertown city line, continuing in a generally northeasterly direction and terminating at its intersection with State Route 342 in the town of LeRay, as the "Colonel Michael Plummer Memorial Highway."

Plummer was an integral part of the modern 10th Mountain Division. He was assigned to Fort Drum in December 1984 as the first chief of staff of the new 10th Mountain Division (LI), which was reactivated Feb. 3, 1985. He was instrumental in standing up and organizing the new division and setting in motion the construction of more than $1 billion in initial infrastructure to support the new unit at Fort Drum.

He was active across the North Country community, spearheading the "Adopt a 10th Mountain Platoon" program. He also initiated and conducted a "Soldier 101" program that facilitates local community members spending a day in the field training and learning what it is to be a Soldier in the 10th Mountain Division on Fort Drum to increase understanding between the local civilian community and their military neighbors.

Plummer spent his career making Soldiers' and their families' lives better, and he dedicated himself to protecting and enhancing Fort Drum.

"Col. Plummer dedicated his life to bettering his country and his community,” said State Senator Patty Ritchie. “One of his biggest priorities was strengthening the connection between Fort Drum and the Watertown community. Naming the roadway connecting these two points in his honor is a fitting tribute and will ensure that the many contributions he made are never forgotten."

"Since the day I met Col. Mike Plummer at Rotary back in the 1980s, he and his family have been steadfast advocates for the 10th Mountain Division and Fort Drum,” said Assemblymember Ken Blankenbush. “It is an honor to have carried this legislation in the Assembly to rename this portion of Route 283 as a lasting legacy to his dedication."

The legislative package dedicates nine other portions of the New York State highway system to veterans who distinguished themselves with their military service.

(Governor’s Press Office)