Representative Richardson Announces House Passage of Legislation Honoring Marion County Veteran

COLUMBUS – The Ohio House of Representatives has approved legislation honoring a Marion County veteran hero, State Representative Tracy Richardson announced today.

The legislation would designate a portion of State Route 4 in Marion County, between Owens Road West and Somerlot Hoffman Road West, the “SGT David S. Harris Memorial Highway.”

“SGT Harris was a remarkable individual who was killed in action in Vietnam while trying to save others,” said Richardson (R-Marysville). “It’s important that we never forget those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.”

Harris grew up in Marion and was a hometown track and football champion. During a reconnaissance-in-force mission in Kien Phong Province in South Vietnam, Harris’ squad came under attack by the North Vietnamese Army in a minefield.

Although they were outnumbered, under intense enemy fire and a number of his squad mates were wounded, Harris courageously worked to help his fellow soldiers. He was wounded while delivering aid and was moving to aid a second casualty when he succumbed to his wounds. He was 21 years old.

Harris received the Silver Star, the Army’s third highest medal for valor, for his heroism in the minefield. In 2017, he was posthumously inducted into the Ohio Military Hall of Fame for Valor.

The road that would be designated in Harris’ honor is close to Pleasant High School, where he graduated in 1966. His Military Hall of Fame Award is on permanent display in the high school, along with his retired football jersey, to honor him as a hometown war hero and sports hero. To preserve his memory and recognize his remarkable accomplishments, the David Harris Victory Bell rings after every Pleasant High touchdown.

Richardson said the feedback she received from Harris’ classmates about the legislation was deeply moving.

“I want to extend a special ‘thank you’ to all of those in the community who have kept SGT Harris in their hearts and worked to keep his memory alive,” Richardson said.

The measure was part of House Bill 276, which now goes to the Ohio Senate for consideration.