The Bustleton Post Office is now known as the Sergeant Christopher David Fitzgerald Post Office Building, following a moving renaming ceremony on Sept. 14.
U.S. Rep. Brendan Boyle sponsored legislation to rename the post office in memory of Fitzgerald, a Temple University police officer who was shot and killed in February 2023.
Now, everyone who uses the busy post office at 9925 Bustleton Ave., open six days a week, will see a plaque in the lobby in memory of Fitzgerald, who lived in Mayfair and had been a Temple officer since 2021.
Among those attending the ceremony were Fitzgerald’s wife, Marissa. The couple had four children. His parents, Joel and Pauline, were also on hand, among many family members.
This was not the first big honor for Fitzgerald. Earlier, the 1700 block of W. Montgomery Ave., near where the officer was slain, was renamed Christopher Fitzgerald Way.
“He deserves it all and more,” Marissa said.
Boyle described the day as both special and solemn. He said the renaming of the post office, which was OK’d by the House and Senate late last year, was a fitting tribute for someone who protected and served Philadelphia. He’s gotten to know the Fitzgerald family in the 2-plus years since Christopher’s death and credited them with the strength they’ve shown.
The congressman said he looks forward to tapping the plaque every time he visits the Sergeant Christopher David Fitzgerald Post Office, describing it as a good location, since young Christopher used to accompany his mom to the post office as she was running errands.
Boyle also thanked members of the Philadelphia and Temple police departments and USPS Inspection Service team for their service.
Joel Fitzgerald encouraged people to continue to “live like Chris,” which was a theme at his funeral at the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul. Joel said his son helped make Temple a better place.
The Rev. Juan Marrero, Fitzgerald’s uncle, said his nephew loved the community he was called to serve, often seen jogging the streets around Temple.
Local Postmaster Roman King lauded Fitzgerald’s courage, service and heroism.
Temple Police Chief Jennifer Griffin said Fitzgerald put others before himself and that his life, courage and commitment to protect will not be forgotten.
Others in attendance included Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel, FOP Lodge 5 president Roosevelt Poplar, state Rep. Sean Dougherty and Dawn Adger, a USPS customer service manager. ••
