Ohio House Unanimously Passes House Bill 27

COLUMBUS – The Ohio House unanimously voted to pass House Bill 27, which would dedicate the Route 90 bridge over the Grand River in Perry Township in memory of Army Specialist Jacob A. Ashton, announced State Representatives Jamie Callender (R-Concord) and Daniel P. Troy (D-Wickliffe). Specialist Ashton was a decorated combat veteran who was assigned to the Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2nd Battalion, 14th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division before his death in August of 2024. 

Specialist Ashton was born in Willoughby to Jason Ashton and Michelle Ustupski, where he lived before moving to Perry with his father and playing baseball and football for the Perry Pirates. He enlisted in the Army in 2021 and attended basic combat training at Fort Benning before deploying to Iraq in 2023 with the 10th Mountain Divisions 2nd brigade combat team. His awards and decorations include Army Commendation Medal with C Device, the National Defense Service Medal, Inherent Resolve Campaign Medal, Global War of Terrorism Service Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, and the Combat Infantry Badge.

Specialist Ashton is remembered as an avid outdoors man, sportsman, and body builder. He was planning to enter body building competitions and public service upon his discharge. 

“Specialist Ashton was one of Lake County’s great sons and a proud defender of our nation,” said Callender. “With the House’s unanimous vote, we are one step closer to memorializing Specialist Ashton’s commitment to his community and dedication to service.”

"In service to our nation, Specialist Ashton displayed remarkable bravery and was honored for his selfless actions,” said Troy. “As travelers pass over the Grand River on the bridge that bears his name, may they take a moment to remember his sacrifice with gratitude and respect.”

House Bill 27 now awaits consideration from the Ohio Senate.