Brockton post office to be named after Rocky Marciano

July 17, 2008 10:12 AM Email| Comments (0)| Text size – +

(AP Photo)

Marciano punches Joe Louis in a 1951 nontitle fight.

By Martin Finucane, Globe Staff

Brockton's postal facility will be named the Rocky Marciano Post Office Building after the rugged 1950s heavyweight champ, who is still fondly remembered in the city decades after his career ended.

President Bush has signed into law a bill naming the Commercial Street post office after Marciano, said US Representative Stephen Lynch, who filed the legislation at the request of Brockton Mayor James E. Harrington.

"The real Rocky's legacy extends far beyond Brockton and the boxing world, but it's fitting to honor him here at home where he got his start. Naming this post office after him will serve as a lasting reminder of his accomplishments," US Senator John F. Kerry said in a statement.

"We think it's a tribute to Rocky and the city. Everybody that goes to the post office will see it," said Harrington.

The high school football stadium is already named after Marciano, as is the street where he grew up. He also has a plaque in a park near his childhood home. The World Boxing Council has also announced plans to erect a statue of Marciano. Harrington said officials from the council would visit the city in the fall and a location on the city hall plaza is being eyed.

Harrington said the city is also looking at implementing a trail connecting various Marciano-related sites in the city. "We'll get it going. Whatever pieces are ready, we'll get it going," he said.

Marciano was undefeated in 49 professional fights, with 43 knockouts. He reigned as world champ from when he knocked out Jersey Joe Walcott in Philadelphia in September 1952 to April 1956, when he retired. He died Aug. 31, 1969.