Senator Mario R. Mattera (2ND Senate District) was recently honored with the Excellence in Public Service Award at the Lt. Det. Joseph Petrosino Association in America’s 116th Anniversary Celebration, held in recognition of Italian American Heritage Month.

The award honors individuals whose leadership and service reflect the enduring legacy of Lt. Det. Joseph (Giuseppe) Petrosino, a trailblazing New York City Police Officer from the early 1900s. Petrosino established the Bomb Squad, Canine Squad, and Undercover Squad — units that continue to play vital roles in modern policing.

“It is a tremendous honor to receive this award from an organization that represents the courage, integrity, and dedication of Lt. Petrosino,” said Senator Mattera. “I’m deeply grateful to my staff, friends, and family — especially my wife Terry — for joining me to celebrate this special recognition.”

The Lt. Det. Joseph Petrosino Association in America recognizes individuals who make a difference in law enforcement, public service, government, education, and business.

This year’s other honorees included:

• Excellence in Law Enforcement – NYPD Joseph Persichilli (posthumously), accepted by his daughter Karen Persichilli Keogh
• Jack and Helen Como Founders Award – Biagio and Marisol Isgro, Order Sons and Daughters of Italy in America NYS Immediate Past President and First Lady
• International Award – Dott. Mauro De Marco, Dirigente Amministrativo Parlamentare della Camera Dei Deputati, Italy
• Humanitarian Award – Hon. Joseph G. Cairo, Jr., Founder, The Pat Cairo Family Foundation, Inc. & Nassau County Republican Party Chairman
• Outstanding Leadership in Law Enforcement Award – NYPD Lt. Anthony Burgio, President, NYPD Columbia Association
• Italian Heritage and Culture Award – Anthony F. Giordano, Vice President, Columbus Citizens Foundation

“It is humbling to be recognized alongside such outstanding individuals who exemplify service and pride in our Italian American heritage,” added Senator Mattera. “Growing up in an Italian American household taught me the importance of family, honor, dignity, and hard work — values I carry with me everyday thanks to my parents. I thank Chairman James C. Lisa, President Robert Fonti, and Secretary Peggy Petrosino for selecting me for this honor and for their leadership and dedication to honoring the achievements of Italian Americans.”

As Vice President of the New York Conference of Italian-American State Legislators, Senator Mattera continues to champion the preservation of Italian culture and history, including efforts to protect the legacy of Christopher Columbus and to make sure that the contributions of all Italian American are remembered, respected, and celebrated.