First Island Bridge now the Petty Officer Stephen “Turbo” Toboz Jr. Bridge
LOCK HAVEN, PA – An authentic American war hero returned to his home town Saturday to receive a heartfelt thanks from the community he left better than 30 years ago to serve his country.
Stephen “Turbo” Toboz Jr. offered his thanks in return as some 200 people gathered near the First Island Bridge, now officially the Petty Officer Stephen “Turbo” Toboz Jr. Bridge. Speakers lauded the Navy Seal’s efforts in March of 2002 in support of an American military effort in a mountainous part of Afghanistan. Toboz’s valor under fire in a rescue mission that cost him his leg resulted in his receiving the Silver Star.
As noted by program emcee Rep Stephanie Borowicz, it is rare the state accords the naming of a bridge for those still living.
Toboz, in his thanks, said that during his high school days he had run across that same bridge while training in football, wrestling and track. A 1987 graduate of Lock Haven High School, Toboz said that training “Made me strong, made me the man I am today.” As for the 2002 mission, he said he had no regrets, “I would do it all over again to save my buddy. I love my country.” At times emotional in his comments, he talked about his 2019 battle in winning a bout with cancer. He said it was now time to “pay back” those who have supported him; retired from the Navy SEALs after 20 years, he trains SEALs as a civilian instructor.
Speakers included US Navy SEAL Command Master Chief (Ret.) Stephen “Mato” Matulewicz. He described Toboz as “most talented, lethal” and applauded him for his toughness and said his current training work has “inspired warriors around the world.”
Following the speeches, program participants and members of the Toboz family walked to the base of the First Island Bridge where the signage for the newly named bridge was unveiled.
Also Saturday a new, permanent plaque recognizing Toboz’s valor was unveiled at the same park in Castanea Township, a surprise to Toboz from Harger Utility Charities.
Those in attendance included Toboz’s high school football coach, Don Malinak, and his wrestling coach Doug Buckwalter; they exchanged banter after the formal ceremony. Also present was Lock Haven native and retired Clarion University wrestling coach Bob Bubb who had coached Toboz at the collegiate level.
