Steven McDonald Posthumously Honored By Town of Hempstead

Late last month, the Town of Hempstead held its first-ever Irish-American Heritage Celebration. The event recognized exceptional Irish-American residents of the town who have made a positive impact on their communities, while also promoting Irish heritage and culture.

“Here in Hempstead Town we have many diverse communities,” said Town Supervisor Anthony Santino. “We are proud to take the time to honor and acknowledge the very best of each unique heritage. March is the perfect month to recognize our outstanding Irish residents.”

The town posthumously honored Malverne resident Det. Steven McDonald. When he was just 29-years, McDonald’s life was changed forever. In July 1986, the plainclothes New York City police officer was shot three times and left a quadriplegic, dependent upon a respirator.

Detective McDonald became the face of forgiveness when, while still in the hospital, just months after the shooting, during the Christening of his newborn son, he forgave the 15-year-old who shot him. Instead of holding on to pain and bitterness, Detective McDonald prayed for them shooter to find peace and purpose.

Rather than giving up his career as a police officer, McDonald became the goodwill ambassador for the NYPD. Whether it was speaking to students at schools across the city, discussing forgiveness around the country or offering support to other wounded officers, Detective McDonald continually made a positive and meaningful difference in the lives of others.

McDonald even took his message of faith, forgiveness and reconciliation abroad, making several trips to Northern Ireland during some of the worst times in that area’s history.

Throughout his incredible journey, McDonald’s wife Patti Ann and son Conor, who wasn’t even born when his father was shot, were by his side. The legacy built by McDonald and his entire family resulted in them being the first family to be inducted into the Irish America Hall of Fame. Those who have been named to the Hall of Fame have made significant contributions to American society and have demonstrated a personal commitment to safeguarding Irish heritage and the betterment of Ireland.

McDonald's award was accepted by his wife Patti Ann, the mayor of Malverne, and his son Conor.

The honorees of the inaugural ceremony included Kathryn Driscoll Hopkins of Garden City, Chief Clerk of Nassau County Supreme Court; John Murray Jr., owner of Mulcahy’s Pub and Concert Hall in Wantagh; Sean O’Rourke of Woodmere, a retired NYPD Detective heavily involved in the Ancient Order of Hibernians; Don Ryan of Hempstead, a treasured long-time public servant; and Mayor-elect; Donna Ryan, a Levittown community volunteer.

Michael Byrne, current Nassau County Feis Chairman, opened the ceremony as the keynote speaker. Entertainment was provided by the Donny Golden School of Irish Dance in Mineola, with the Nassau County Police Emerald Society Pipe Band and the Nassau County Firefighters Pipes and Drums supplying the music.

Photo: Town of Hempstead