Gillen proposes naming Oceanside post office after 9/11 responder Luis Alvarez

Rep. Laura Gillen has introduced bipartisan legislation to rename the U.S. Post Office on Atlantic Avenue in Oceanside in honor of Detective Luis G. Alvarez, an NYPD detective and 9/11 responder who died in 2019 from cancer linked to his work at ground zero.

The bill would designate the facility at 80 Atlantic Ave. as the "Detective Luis G. Alvarez Post Office."

Alvarez, an Oceanside resident, spent three months at the World Trade Center site after the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, searching for survivors and the remains of fellow officers. He later developed colorectal cancer, which was attributed to his exposure to toxic debris at ground zero.

"His bravery, selflessness and sacrifice reflect the very best of our nation," Gillen said in a statement, adding that Alvarez was also a leading advocate for the World Trade Center Health Program and compensation for 9/11 responders.

Alvarez joined the New York City Police Department in 1990 and later served in the department's Bomb Squad before retiring in 2010. He became a prominent advocate for permanently funding the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund during his battle with cancer.

Following his death on June 29, 2019, Congress approved legislation permanently authorizing the compensation fund. The law was later signed by President Donald Trump.

Lainie Alvarez, his widow, said the designation would preserve her husband's legacy in the community where they raised their family.

"Oceanside is our home and where we raised our kids," Alvarez said in a statement. "Renaming our local post office after Lou will ensure his courage and bravery on 9/11 and fighting for the WTCHP in the decades that followed is never forgotten."

The measure is co-sponsored by all members of New York's House delegation and is supported by the Alvarez family.