South Dakota’s Fallen Hero Bridge program dedicates state bridges to South Dakotans who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving their country or were classified as missing in action.
These men and women went to war and met their destiny in far off lands and battlefields. There is nothing more important for us to do than to ensure their sacrifices are remembered and their legacy lives on.
They need to be remembered as heroes who chose to serve and risk their lives. Heroes who were struck down in the pursuit of something bigger than themselves. Heroes that are forever deserving of our respect, admiration, and remembrance.
These brave warriors who fell in battle were often young and brimming with promise. They had a sense of energy, optimism, and hope.
For the greater good of our nation, they knowingly marched into harm’s way. They put everything on the line to ensure our future, even though it meant endangering their own. The veterans we dedicate these bridges to did not just give us their lives, they gave us their futures. Most had more life ahead of them than behind them. Many did not experience their college graduation, their wedding, or the birth of their first child.
The men and women we honor through these bridges were American soldiers, sailors, airmen, marines, and coast guardsmen who sought service when times were troubled – when American values were challenged.
We are committed to preserving their memories. I ask everyone to participate in one of the 12 bridge dedications scheduled in 2023 in remembrance of South Dakota’s fallen heroes.
To learn more about South Dakota’s fallen heroes bridge dedication program, visit the SDDVA website at SD Department of Veterans Affairs.
Let us never stop educating the next generation about the price that has been paid for their freedom.
Greg Whitlock, Secretary
South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs