In an effort to honor a local hero, Rep. Barb Gleim (R-Cumberland) will host a ceremony to dedicate a bridge on Route 641 over Big Spring Creek as the SFC Randall Shughart Memorial Bridge. The public is invited to attend this event.
The dedication ceremony is scheduled for Thursday, May 30, at 10 a.m. at American Legion Post 421 at 28 Shepard Road in Newville. Guest speakers will include Congressman Scott Perry (R-PA) and Sen. Greg Rothman (R-Cumberland).
“SFC Shughart, a Medal of Honor recipient and a resident of the Newville area, gave his life to protect his brothers in arms,” said Gleim. “Honoring him with a bridge naming is just one way we can be reminded daily of his bravery and sacrifice, and historically, remind ourselves that freedom isn’t free.”
Shughart died in service to his country on Oct. 3, 1993, during the battle of Mogadishu, Somalia. He was a resident of Newville and attended Big Spring High School before joining the U.S. Army’s elite Delta Force unit. Shughart was killed during a rescue operation of two downed Blackhawk helicopters – an incident featured in the book and movie titled “Blackhawk Down.” For his bravery and ultimate sacrifice, Shughart was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor.
Gleim authored legislation amended into Act 17 of 2023 designating the bridge carrying PA Route 641 over Big Spring Creek on the border of Newville Borough and West Pennsboro Township, Cumberland County, as the SFC Randall Shughart Memorial Bridge.
Those planning to attend are encouraged to RSVP online at RepGleim.com or by calling 717-249-1990.
