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Louisiana Honors Slidell Bridge Tender and Pearl River Police Captain With Memorial Designations
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Louisiana Honors Slidell Bridge Tender and Pearl River Police Captain With Memorial Designations
LOUISIANA — Two St. Tammany Parish men who left lasting marks on their communities are being honored through new roadway designations after House Bill 1167, now Act 337, was signed into law.
The legislation, authored by State Representative Brian Glorioso, recognizes Emile “Tobe” Galatas, the first bridge tender of the Bayou Liberty swing bridge in Slidell, and Captain Steven M. Gaudet Jr., a dedicated Pearl River Police Department officer who died in the line of duty.
Emile “Tobe” Galatas Memorial Bridge
The elevated portion of Louisiana Highway 433 from Dubee Pena Road to Rivet Drive in Slidell will now be known as the Emile “Tobe” Galatas Memorial Bridge.
Galatas, who lived from 1874 to 1951, was a respected craftsman and historical figure known throughout Louisiana for his wildfowl decoy carving. He also served as the very first bridge tender for the swing bridge crossing Bayou Liberty along Highway 433, helping connect the growing Slidell community during an important period in its history.
Captain Steven M. Gaudet Jr. Memorial Highway
A section of U.S. Highway 11 in Pearl River, extending from the Dr. T.J. Smith Sr. Expressway to Louisiana Highway 41, has been designated the Captain Steven M. Gaudet Jr. Memorial Highway.
Gaudet served as a captain with the Pearl River Police Department and was widely respected for his commitment to public service. He passed away in the line of duty on July 16, 2020, at the age of 39 due to complications related to COVID-19 after a confirmed on-duty exposure while serving the community.
A Lasting Legacy
Supporters say the memorial designations ensure that both men’s contributions will continue to be remembered for generations to come. One helped preserve and shape Slidell’s history, while the other dedicated his life to protecting the people of Pearl River.
Their names will now be permanently displayed along the roadways that connect the communities they helped serve.
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