News

City of Watervliet Dedicates Memorial Flagpole at the Water Filtration Plant

The City of Watervliet dedicated a memorial flagpole at the Water Filtration Plant on Route 155 in memory of Eric Hurley. A plaque was also placed at the base of the flagpole in remembrance of all Water Department employees who have passed away during more than 100 years of dedicated service to our community.

Watervliet has been fortunate to have so many outstanding employees who have worked tirelessly to serve our residents and provide some of the highest-quality drinking water in the region. With the loss of Eric last Columbus Day in a tragic drunk-driving accident on the Northway, we lost not only a valued employee, but also a good man and a friend to many.

Today, families of former Water Department employees, along with Eric’s family and friends, gathered to dedicate the flagpole and honor those who came before us. We were honored to have guest speakers including John T. McDonald III, Jake Ashby, and Lee Kindlon, who each shared thoughtful remarks commemorating this special occasion.

In addition, Rafi Topalian delivered a beautiful rendition of the National Anthem, and Tom MacDonald concluded the ceremony with the playing of Taps.

I want to thank our Water Department and DPW crews for installing the flagpole and beautifully landscaping the area. I also want to recognize the Watervliet Tree Committee for planting a tree in Eric’s honor.

A special thank you goes to Eric’s family and friends, who raised more than $5,000 to help purchase the flagpole and its accessories. Your generosity and dedication made this meaningful memorial possible.

On behalf of the City of Watervliet, thank you to everyone who contributed to and attended today’s dedication ceremony. May this flagpole serve as a lasting tribute to Eric Hurley and to all Water Department employees whose service and commitment helped make Watervliet the community it is today.

–Mayor Charles V. Patricelli