Jan. 21, 2020
HARRISBURG – Votes on two bills drafted by Rep. Matthew Dowling (R-Fayette/Somerset) to honor local veterans for their service to the country received unanimous support today from the House.
“One of the best parts of serving this district is honoring the accomplishments and sacrifices of the people who call it home,” Dowling said. “Both of these veterans were well-decorated and undoubtedly deserve this recognition.”
House Bill 2116 would designate a bridge on the portion of State Route 669 that crosses the Casselman River in Somerset County as the Sgt. Stephen M. Minick Memorial Bridge.
A native of Salisbury, Minick gave his life in service to his country during the Vietnam War. He was a light weapons infantryman and served with A Company, 4th Battalion, 503rd Infantry, 173rd Airborne Brigade. He was awarded the Purple Heart, the Combat Infantryman Badge, the Parachutist Badge, the National Defense Service Medal, the Distinguished Unit Citation, the Vietnam Gallantry Cross Unit Citation and the Good Conduct Medal.
House Bill 2117 would designate a bridge on the portion of State Route 2004 that carries Broadway Street over the Casselman River in Somerset County as the Airman Michael L. Menser Memorial Bridge.
A native of Boynton, Menser served on the U.S.S. Forrestal as a U.S. Naval Reservist. On July 29, 1967, the U.S.S. Forrestal suffered a catastrophic fire during flight operations while on Yankee Station off the coast of Vietnam. During the fire, Airman Menser fought the fire and controlled the damage. He was awarded the Navy Commendation Medal for his exemplary service and bravery.
After receiving support from the House committee, both bills move to the Senate for consideration.
Representative Matt Dowling
51st Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Alison Evans
717.260.6206
aevans@pahousegop.com
RepDowling.com /
Facebook.com/RepDowling
Twitter.com/RepDowling /
Instagram.com/RepDowling