The Pennsylvania Route 413 bridge over U.S. Route 1 in Middletown Township was dedicated to Cpl. John F. Muffler, a Neshaminy graduate and Langhorne Manor resident who tragically lost his life on Oct. 23, 1983, at the age of 19, in the devastating Beirut barracks bombing.
Sen. Frank Farry and Rep. Joe Hogan introduced legislation to formally dedicate the bridge to Muffler. Earlier this summer, their language was included in an omnibus package of dedications, now Act No. 63 of 2024.
Family members, veterans, local dignitaries and many community members gathered at Woods Services, with a view of the bridge, to honor Muffler’s sacrifice. The ceremony began with a presentation of colors by 3rd Battalion 14th Marine Color Guard, followed by a welcome from Farry, Hogan, veteran advocate Ed Preston, and close friend and classmate of Muffler, Vince Muscato.
Muffler was a 1981 graduate of Neshaminy High School. He was a dedicated drummer in the high school band. Muffler enlisted in the United States Marine Corps right out of high school. His adventurous spirit led him to choose a path that would take him to Okinawa, Japan, Korea and, ultimately, Beirut.
On Oct. 23, 1983, the suicide bombing attack on the U.S. Marine Corps barracks in Beirut claimed the lives of 241 American servicemen and wounded hundreds more. Muffler was among the fallen, a victim of the horrific violence that shook the world. It was the deadliest single-day attack against U.S. Marines since the battle of Iwo Jima in 1945.
His sister Diane said, “I’m sad my children didn’t get to have their uncle in their life. I’m sad I didn’t get to see him grow up, get married and have a family of his own. So much was lost that day.”
His mom, Joan Muffler, said, “John was a young man who could make you laugh. In his 19 years, many friends and family enjoyed his humor. He was a proud Marine.”
Farry said, “Cpl. Muffler lived a stone’s throw away from this bridge and I am honored that I had a part in ensuring his legacy will live on forever right here in this community.”
“Honoring our veterans is a responsibility I take very seriously,” said Hogan. “I am grateful that the community brought this request to Sen. Farry and I. We are honored that we were able to ensure Cpl. Muffler will forever be remembered.”
