A portion of State Route 75 through the Town of Eden has been renamed in memory of U.S. Army Captain John J. Levulis, who died in May from injuries suffered in an auto accident while traveling on the New Jersey Turnpike in a convoy to Fort Dix. Signs marking the highway's new identity of the “Captain John J. Levulis Memorial Highway” were unveiled Friday in ceremonies at the Newell-Faulkner American Legion Post 880 in Eden. The designation was originally approved by Governor Andrew Cuomo on July 2.
Levulis was a graduate of Eden High School, and a summa cum laude graduate of Niagara University, before serving a tour of duty in Afghanistan. He was the recipient of numerous awards and medals, including the Bronze Star, Combat Infantry Badge, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, NATO Campaign Medal, Airborne Wings and the Meritorious Service Medal.
“Captain Levulis served our country with pride and distinction from his days in ROTC at Niagara University, to his assignment with the 10th Mountain Division as an infantry platoon leader in Afghanistan,” State Senator Patrick Gallivan said. “He was also a beloved member of the Eden community, a leader, and a role model for others. It is fitting that we honor Captain Levulis by dedicating this highway in his name, which will serve as a lasting tribute to his courage and sacrifice.”
The designation covers a 14 mile stretch of Route 75 from its intersection with Route 62 to the Eden-North Collins town line.
Levulis is survived by his wife Julianne, his parents, Barbara and Gary, his brother James and numerous other family members.
