Part of Jericho Turnpike renamed for fallen hero from Commack

A fallen Long Island hero was honored Saturday for his service.
A nine-mile stretch of Jericho Turnpike was renamed for Commack-native Lt. Christopher Raguso – a decorated FDNY lieutenant, a volunteer with the Commack Fire Department and a member of the 106th Air Rescue Wing.
He died in March 2018, one day after his 39th birthday when his military helicopter crashed in western Iraq.
Officials say the renaming will ensure Raguso's service and bravery will live on forever.
"He was such an inspiration for so many of us here,” said Commack Fire Chief Bobby Wilkins. “A leader, a mentor, a true example of what we should all strive to be."
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The stretch of Jericho Turnpike renamed for Raguso starts west of Elwood Road and goes about a quarter-mile east of the Smithtown Bull.
Raguso's wife Carmella brought tears and smiles to people's faces as she spoke about their life together.
"I'm so honored that this stretch of road is being named after Christopher Joseph. This road holds a lot of fond memories for us."
In addition to his wife, parents and brother, Raguso also left behind two daughters, now 8 and 6. They were all present to watch the sign being unveiled.
"Those signs mean a lot. It means that all the men and woman that you saw show up here today felt something about this man who gave everything,” said John Raguso, Chris’ father.