Rep. Buchy Announces Memorial Highway Designation

State Representative Jim Buchy (R-Greenville) today announced that legislation designating a portion of State Route 67 in Auglaize County as the “Staff Sgt. Sonny Zimmerman Memorial Highway” has passed the Ohio House. Senate Bill 185 passed unanimously out of the House Transportation, Public Safety, and Homeland Security Committee.

The legislation pays tribute to Staff Sgt. Zimmerman, who died while serving overseas in Afghanistan by a rocket propelled grenade in July of 2013. Zimmerman served a total of four tours overseas, three of which were in Afghanistan. A dedicated soldier, he earned two Bronze Stars, two Purple Hearts, and three Army Commendation Medals while serving.

Rep. Buchy said, “Honoring brave men and women like Staff Sgt. Zimmerman is a privilege.  Naming this road in his honor, which will be frequented by his family and friends, is a way to show gratitude to the patriot and the family for the sacrifice Staff Sgt. Zimmerman made to ensure our freedom.”

During the committee process, sponsors spoke about how the memorial highway would serve as a small token of the state’s appreciation for all that Sgt. Zimmerman sacrificed for his country. Zimmerman was formerly of Waynesfield, which resides in Auglaize County.

Senate Bill 185 now awaits Governor Kasich’s signature.