O’Mara, Morton-Rutledge firefighters honor Capt. Malinowski at bridge dedication
Rep. Jennifer M. O'Mara October 6, 2020 | 8:52 AM
MORTON, Oct. 5 – In honor of the late Morton-Rutledge Fire Co. Capt. Michael Malinowski Sr., state Rep. Jennifer O’Mara and members of the company joined together Sunday to cut the ribbon on the newly named Capt. Michael Malinowski Sr. Memorial Bridge, which carries the Morton Avenue section of State Route 2025 over Stoney Creek connecting Morton and Rutledge.
The ceremony was followed by a memorial ride featuring two firetrucks from the Morton-Rutledge Fire Co. Station 13.
"The community and I wanted to dedicate a place to Captain Malinowski to recognize all that he did for all of us,” said O’Mara, D-Delaware. “Mike was such a big part of Morton and Rutledge, and it’s fitting that we name the bridge connecting the two boroughs after him.
“The memory of Mike’s life of service will continue to inspire us, and I will continue to be there for his family and the members of the Morton-Rutledge Fire Company."
Malinowski was captain of Morton-Rutledge Fire Co. and passed away Dec. 3, 2019. Legislation written by O’Mara was introduced in H.B. 1597 to rename the bridge in his honor. The law was signed into law this summer. ?
The dedication was attended by Malinowski’s widow, Melissa, and his children; the Malinowski family; members and officers of the Morton-Rutledge Fire Co. and their families; Morton Mayor Tom App; Rutledge Mayor Kevin Cunningham; and Morton and Rutledge council presidents and members.
“We will honor Mike every time we cross this bridge, because we had the honor of knowing the husband, father, friend and firefighter he was. Captain 13 will never be forgotten,” said Morton-Rutledge Fire Co. Station 13 Chief Don Holstein.
After Holstein and O’Mara spoke, Melissa Malinowski and her and Mike’s youngest daughter, Harper, cut the ribbon. The fire company trucks then took the memorial first ride over the bridge.
O’Mara also extended her thanks to the Morton Police Department for its assistance and PennDOT officials for their work.