NEW ROCHELLE, NY (May 16, 2025) — The New Rochelle Police Department dedicated its newest patrol boat, Marine 2, in honor of the late Police Officer Kathleen O’Connor-Funigiello during a ceremony at the Harbor Patrol on Monday, May 12. O’Connor-Funigiello, who died in 2018 from a 9/11-related illness, was a Ground Zero volunteer following the September 11 terrorist attacks.
The ceremony was attended by city and police department officials, O’Connor-Funigiello’s family, current and retired NRPD members, and marine units from the United States Coast Guard Station Kings Point, FDNY, Westchester County, Village of Mamaroneck, City of Rye, and Town of North Hempstead.
Marine 2, a 2021 state-of-the-art, 33-foot Full Cabin Defender class vessel, was custom-built for the Long Island Sound by SAFE Boats International. The boat features radiological detection equipment, side scan sonar, underwater 3D imaging, a fire suppression system, thermal imaging, night vision, and support for the NRPD Dive Rescue Team’s operations. Funding for the vessel was secured primarily through a Federal Port Security Grant by NRPD Harbor Unit Sgt. Tim Childs.
“Dedicating police boats in honor of fallen officers is a police tradition that reflects the deep respect and remembrance law enforcement agencies have for those who made the ultimate sacrifice,” said New Rochelle Police Commissioner Robert Gazzola. “These dedications serve as lasting tributes, ensuring that the names and legacies of officers continue to protect and serve, even beyond their time in uniform. We are grateful for a life that was dedicated to service, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to the people of New Rochelle: that of Police Officer Kathleen O’Connor-Funigiello.”
O’Connor-Funigiello, a New Rochelle native, joined the NRPD on January 25, 1998. She served primarily in the Police Services Division, earning a Commendation Award, and later worked as the Warrant Officer in the Criminal Investigations Division. Following the 9/11 attacks, she volunteered at Ground Zero, assisting first responders in rescue and recovery efforts. After a long battle with a 9/11-related illness, she passed away on August 16, 2018. On May 15, 2019, she was memorialized at the 38th Annual National Peace Officers’ Memorial Service in Washington, D.C.
This article was drafted with the aid of Grok, an AI tool by xAI, under the direction and editing of Robert Cox to ensure accuracy and adherence to journalistic standards.
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