Legislation renames state routes to honor local soldiers that died in Vietnam War

Ohio has passed legislation to rename portions of state Routes 63 and 122 to honor local war heroes who died during the Vietnam War.

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The portion of Route 63 will be named the SFC John E. Conger, Jr. Memorial Highway.

Conger was determined to be missing in action on Jan. 27, 1969 after his unit came under attack by machine gun fire during a search and destroy mission. Conger reported tried to take out the enemy machine gun nest when he was wounded in the neck and shoulder. The wounded could not be reached due to the machine gun fire, and the Army changed his status to presumed dead in 1978. Conger lived in Lebanon when he enlisted.

The portion of Route 122 will be named the SFC Charles E. Carpenter Highway.

Carpenter served as a Green Beret, and was on his third tour of duty when he was killed by small-arms fire during a conflict. He lived in Warren County when he enlisted.

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Credit: Governor's Office

Credit: Governor's Office

State Senator Steve Wilson of Maineville and over 35 Ohio families were present for the signing of the bill by Governor Mike DeWine.

“These road designations ensure that both of their legacies live on forever in each of their hometowns and also serve as a reminder for us to recognize the bravery of all men and women who protect our freedom,” Wilson said.

The bill was amended in the Senate Transportation Committee last year to include other road designations throughout the state.

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