On Tuesday evening, the Town of Clarkstown honored a true American hero, Al Magnatta, with the renaming of Chauncey Street in Congers in his name.
Born in Nyack 100 years ago, Magnatta moved to Congers at age 10, attended local schools, and left high school at 18 to join the United States Army Air Corps. Serving as a tailgunner in World War II, he flew 25 combat missions and miraculously survived being shot down twice. His valor earned him two Bronze Stars and numerous other military honors.
After his discharge in 1946, Magnatta returned to Congers, joined the Congers Fire Department, and raised a family. Now recognized as the oldest and longest-serving active member of the department, Magnatta has dedicated nearly 80 years to service. He served as Fire Chief from 1960 to 1962 and as a Rockland County fire coordinator for 58 years before retiring in 2020.
Clarkstown Supervisor George Hoehmann reflected on the rare opportunity to honor someone for their lifetime of service while they are still alive.
“I’m so glad that this evening we were able to rename the street where Al built his home with Al present, surrounded by his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, to honor an American hero,” Hoehmann said.
Magnatta’s legacy spans service to his country, his community, and countless residents of Rockland County—making the street renaming a fitting tribute to a life dedicated to others.
