HOUSE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION 25

(By Delegate Sheedy)

[Introduced January 15, 2024; referred to the Committee on Technology and Infrastructure then Rules]

Requesting the Division of Highways name bridge number 26-250/00-011.46 (26A089), locally known as Grade School Bridge, carrying US 250 over Grave Creek in Marshall County, "U. S. Navy Sonarman First Class William "Bill" C. Harris Memorial Bridge".

Whereas, Sonarman First Class Harris was born in Glen Easton in Marshall County, West Virginia on October 30, 1924; and

Whereas, Sonarman First Class Harris enlisted in the Navy during World War II; and

Whereas, served aboard the USS Gandy, a Cannon-class destroyer escort that, on April 16, 1944, caused the sinking of U-550, which was not found until July 23, 2012; and

Whereas, Sonarman First Class Harris was a valiant proponent of veterans' issues and rights and was a good friend of WWII Marine Congressional Medal of Honor recipient. Sonarman First Class Harris was a Rural Mail Carrier in the U.S. Postal Service until his retirement, and a former Commander of American Legion Post #18; and

Whereas, Sonarman First Class Harris passed away on October 16, 2021; and

Whereas, It is fitting that an enduring memorial be established to commemorate Sonarman First Class William "Bill" C. Harris and his/her contributions to our state and country; therefore, be it

Resolved by the Legislature of West Virginia:

That the Division of Highways is hereby requested to name bridge number 26-250/00-011.46 (26A089), locally known as Grade School Bridge, carrying US 250 over Grave Creek in Marshall County, the “U. S. Navy Sonarman First Class William "Bill" C. Harris Memorial Bridge”; and, be it

Further Resolved, That the Clerk of the House forward a copy of this resolution to the Commissioner of the Division of Highways.