It now has a new name as well.

Known for about 55 years as Veterans Bridge, it is now the Albert Habhab Veterans Memorial Bridge.

It is named after a World War II veteran who was the city’s mayor when the span was built.

Habhab was a mayor, district court judge and judge of the Iowa Court of Appeals.

The new name of the bridge was announced during Friday’s Veterans Day ceremony at St. Edmond Catholic School. Habhab, who was present, received a standing ovation.

On Monday, the City Council voted unanimously to rename the bridge.

The council resolution states: “Whereas Albert Habhab was born Sept. 6, 1925, in Fort Dodge, Iowa, and

“Whereas after graduating early from Fort Dodge Senior High, he enlisted into the Army on Jan. 25, 1944. Nine months later, his unit, the 87th Infantry Division, fought in the Battle of the Bulge. As a result of his Army service, Habhab was awarded the Bronze Star, three battle stars and the Combat Infantryman Badge;

“Whereas Albert Habhab served as the mayor of Fort Dodge from 1960 to 1974. During his tenure, he made significant improvements to address the frequent flooding caused by the Des Moines River. He is also credited with the construction of Williams Drive and Veterans Bridge, which have played a vital role in the development of the city, and;

“Whereas in 1975 he was appointed as a judge in the Second Judicial District, where he served for 13 years. Later in 1988, Habhab was appointed to the Iowa Court of Appeals and was eventually chosen as its chief judge by his fellow judges. After leaving the court in 1997, he continued to serve as a senior judge for eight more years, and

“Whereas, as the son of Lebanese immigrants and Fort Dodge native, he has devoted his life to service — as an Army private in World War II, as the city’s mayor for 14 years, and as a district court judge and state appellate court justice.

“Now therefore be it resolved that the City Council hereby renames the Veterans Memorial Bridge to the Albert Habhab Veterans Memorial Bridge in honor of Albert Habhab’s accomplishments, contributions to our community and dedication to humankind.”