Rep. Patterson and Sen. Cafaro to Honor WWI Veterans

State Rep. John Patterson (D-Jefferson) and State Sen. Capri Cafaro (D-Hubbard) today announced a measure to honor local World War I veterans. The lawmakers recently introduced legislation to designate a portion of U.S. Route 20, between Ashtabula and North Kingsville, as the “World War I Veterans Highway.

“Our state should honor this group of veterans whose service is often overlooked,” said Rep. Patterson. “The legacy of WWI veterans will not be forgotten, and this is one way we can show our unyielding gratitude to them and their families.”

Rep. Patterson and Sen. Cafaro introduced companion bills in the House, House Bill 415, and Senate, Senate Bill 265.

The legislation was initiated by Rev. Robert F. Leonard, Veterans Memorial Park Trustee and United War Veterans Commander. In response to learning that the legislation was introduced, Rev. Leonard said, "The sad fact that now all of the WWI veterans are gone we cannot forget them. I hope that by naming this small section of road we can honor their great sacrifices."

HB 415 and SB 265 will soon receive committee assignments in order to begin moving through the legislative process.

“World War I is often overshadowed but should be remembered as being one of our nation’s most significant armed conflicts,” said Sen. Cafaro. “Although the veterans that served in this war are no longer with us, it is important that our future generations have a reminder of the sacrifices that they made for our country.”