28-05-2025
Ceremony set to rename Carpenter Flats Bridge after late trooper
PERU — A ceremony to rename the Carpenter Flats Bridge after late New York state Trooper Christopher J. Garrow is taking place May 30.
The New York State Police said the dedication ceremony will be at 11 a.m. at Heyworth Mason Park at Mason Hill Road, located on US Route 9 in the town of Peru.
The bridge will be renamed the 'Captain Christopher J. Garrow Memorial Bridge.'
Garrow was born and raised in Peru and graduated from Peru High School in 1994. Shortly after graduation, he joined the United States Marine Corps in July of that same year.
Following his service in the Marine Corps, he attended Clinton Community College and earned an associate degree in Humanities.
Garrow joined the New York State Police on Oct. 30, 2000, as a member of the 184th Academy Basic School. After successfully graduating from the Academy on May 15, 2001, he began his career as a trooper in Plattsburgh.
His passion for the job and commitment to excellence led him to take on various roles, including Marine Operator, Firearms Instructor, member of the State Police Underwater Rescue Team, and Field Training Officer. Throughout his career, he advanced through the ranks, serving as Sergeant, Station Commander, Zone Sergeant, Lieutenant, and most recently, Captain.
He was recognized as a distinguished pistol expert and received a Superintendent's Commendation award, as well as a 911 First Responder award.
Captain Garrow served as a dedicated member of the New York State Police for 23 years. He passed away on June 12, 2023, at the age of 47, after a courageous battle with an illness related to his work at the World Trade Center following the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001. Without hesitation, Garrow bravely answered the call to participate in the search and recovery efforts.
'Captain Garrow was a brave and selfless public servant who devoted himself to protecting others,' state police said in a news release.
'His dedication to duty and ultimate sacrifice serve as a reminder of the dangers faced by our law enforcement officers every day. He was not only a Captain in the State Police but also a loving husband, a father to two daughters, and a cherished member of the community. To Captain Garrow's family, we extend our deepest gratitude and respect.'
Troop B Commander Major Brent M. Davison, along with the members of Troop B, are honored to recognize the ultimate sacrifice made by Captain Garrow, who dedicated his life and service to the people of New York State.
The State Police will be joined by Captain Garrow's family, as well as several local and state officials who contributed to making this dedication possible, including State Sen. Dan Stec and Assemblyman Billy Jones.
'Captain Christopher J. Garrow was a hero who answered the call when our nation needed him. Renaming this bridge in his home community is a small way to honor his service and sacrifice, and ensure his name lives on forever,' Stec said.
'Renaming this bridge is just one way the community can show their appreciation for Captain Christopher J. Garrow and his incredible dedication to the North Country community and his country,' Jones said.
'A Marine Corps veteran and dedicated New York State Police member for over two decades, Captain Garrow was an inspirational community leader who embodied the strength and character we should all strive to replicate. I am proud to be part of the efforts to spearhead the legislation to dedicate this bridge in his memory – I cannot think of someone who is more worthy of this recognition.'
