Lower Bucks Today

Middletown Township has dedicated the Pennsylvania Route 413 bridge over U.S. Route 1 to Corporal John F. Muffler, a Langhorne Manor resident and Neshaminy graduate who died in the Beirut barracks bombing on October 23, 1983. The dedication ceremony took place today.

Senator Frank Farry and Representative Joe Hogan introduced legislation to dedicate the bridge to Corporal Muffler. Their proposal was included in an omnibus package of dedications, now known as Act No. 63 of 2024.

The ceremony at Wood Services featured family members, veterans, local dignitaries, and community members. It began with a presentation of colors by the 3rd Battalion 14th Marine Color Guard and included remarks from Farry, Hogan, veteran advocate Ed Preston, and Vince Muscato, a close friend and classmate of Muffler.

Corporal Muffler graduated from Langhorne-Neshaminy High School in 1981 and was an active member of the high school band as a drummer. He joined the United States Marine Corps after graduation and served in Okinawa, Japan; Korea; and Beirut.

On October 23, 1983, a suicide bombing attack on the U.S. Marine Corps barracks in Beirut killed 241 American servicemen, including Corporal Muffler. This attack marked the deadliest single-day loss for U.S. Marines since Iwo Jima in 1945.

Diane Muffler expressed her sorrow: “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 on his own. So much was lost that day.”

Joan Muffler remembered her son: “John was a young man who could make you laugh. In his nineteen years, many friends and family enjoyed his humor. He was a proud Marine.”

Farry commented on the dedication: “Corporal 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 his community.”

Hogan added: “Honoring our Veterans is a responsibility I take very seriously,” emphasizing gratitude towards those who initiated this tribute.