By Tom Deignan

FORMER Congressman Tom Manton, an Irish American political powerhouse in Queens who passed away in July of this year, will have a post office in Woodside named in his honor, due to the efforts of Congressman Joe Crowley and Senators Hillary Clinton and Charles Schumer.

The post office at 39-25 61st Street will now be named the "Thomas J. Manton Post Office Building,” after both the House and Senate approved legislation last week before the congressional recess.

Washington, DC - Rep. Joseph Crowley (D-Queens & the Bronx), S

"The debt of gratitude owed to Thomas Manton for a lifetime of public service can never truly be repaid. As a marine, police officer, City Council Member, and Congressman, he demonstrated true patriotism by making public duty his top priority,” said Crowley, who holds Manton’s old congressional seat.

“With this legislation to rename this post office in Tom Manton's honor, we pay tribute to his remarkable career and enduring memory as a public servant who fought tirelessly for the people of Woodside and Queens to improve our quality of life."

"Thomas Manton dedicated his life to serving his community and constituents, many who had recently immigrated to Queens and needed a public servant like Manton to help them achieve the American dream," said Schumer.

"Tom Manton was a committed public servant who had a fundamental belief in the strength of community," said Clinton.

Manton was a member of Congress from 1984 until 1999. Prior to that he was a police officer and also a member of the Marines. In Queens, his political influence is legendary, as he chaired the influential Queens County Democratic Party until he died in July.

His parents hailed from Ireland, and Manton was always a forceful advocate of Irish issues, both on a national and local level.