State Rep. Will Bruck’s plan to honor fallen Monroe Township Fire Capt. Joseph M. Liedel was signed into law today by the governor.

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

Bruck’s new law renames the stretch of highway where Liedel’s former fire station is located as the “Captain Joseph M. Liedel Memorial Highway.” The stretch runs along M-125, also known as South Dixie Highway, from the intersection with East Dunbar Road and continues south to the intersection with East Albain Road.

“The Captain Joseph M. Liedel Memorial Highway will serve as a lasting tribute to his 28 years of dedicated service,” Bruck said. “My hope is that anyone who drives by the signage will reflect on the selflessness exhibited by Captain Liedel and all those who devote themselves to the well-being of our community.”

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.

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 House Bill 4845, now Public Act 5 of 2024.

The Monroe Township Fire Department has already raised the funds needed to purchase signs to recognize Liedel along the highway. The signs will now be ordered from the Michigan Department of Transportation, and an unveiling ceremony will be scheduled once installation is complete.

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