State Rep. Will Bruck’s plan to honor fallen Monroe Township Fire Capt. Joseph M. Liedel was unanimously approved by the Senate this week. Having previously received unanimous approval from the House, it will soon be presented to the governor for her expected signature.

The legislation, House Bill 4845, would rename the stretch of highway where Liedel’s former fire station is located as the “Captain Joseph M. Liedel Memorial Highway.” The stretch would run along M-125, also known as South Dixie Highway, from the intersection with East Dunbar Road and continue south to the intersection with East Albain Road.

“I am deeply grateful for the unanimous support shown by my colleagues in both the House and Senate,” Bruck said. “Their overwhelming endorsement underscores the profound impact Captain Liedel had on our community during his 28 years of dedicated service. I am confident Gov. Whitmer will soon take the final step and sign the bill into law, ensuring that Captain Liedel’s legacy is forever enshrined in our state’s history.”

On July 31, 2020, Liedel collapsed on the way to his vehicle as he was responding to a call. It was later determined that he had suffered a life-threatening brain bleed. Liedel was unable to recover from the incident and passed away on Aug. 24, 2020, at the age of 48.

Liedel is the only firefighter in the history of the Monroe Charter Township Fire Department to die in the line of duty.

Monroe Township firefighters worked alongside Bruck throughout the legislative process. They reflected on Liedel’s life during testimony before the House and Senate transportation committees and were present when both the House and Senate approved the bill.

“I am extremely grateful for the firefighters who worked with me to ensure that Captain Liedel’s memory is honored and cherished,” Bruck said. “Their dedication was evident as they shared heartfelt testimonies before the House and Senate transportation committees and made the drive to Lansing to be present when each chamber voted on the bill. Their commitment to preserving the legacy of their friend and fellow firefighter serves as a testament to the strong bonds within the firefighting community. Their tireless effort has helped ensure that Captain Liedel’s spirit lives on.”

The Monroe Township Fire Department has already raised the funds needed to purchase the signs to recognize Liedel along the highway once the legislation is signed into law.

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