I-84 to become Vietnam Veterans Memorial Highway

Interstate 84 will become the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Highway July 1. The Idaho Transportation Department designed and constructed the signs, which will be placed at each end of the highway and markers at intermediate sites along the highway, according to language in Senate Bill 1227.

The bill was introduced to the Idaho Legislature Jan. 22, signed by Gov. C.L. "Butch" Otter Feb. 20 and will be effective July 1. State Sen. Lee Heide sponsored the bill and helped to get it passed.

According to Capt. Henry Parker, commander of the Idaho Department of the Military Order of the Purple Heart, the signs are being made by the ITD. His group is raising funds for additional signs.

"The I-84 Vietnam Veterans Memorial Highway begins in Oregon and will run through Idaho. Plans are to eventually continue it into Utah," Parker said.

Commemorative coins and patches are being sold to raise funds to purchase additional signs.

"Tentative plans include a dedication ceremony for the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Highway on the Idaho State Capitol steps July 1," Parker said.

This year commemorates the 50th year for Vietnam War veterans who are honored for their service, valor and sacrifice. This includes their families, especially those who lost loved ones during the Vietnam War.

For more information or to support this cause call Parker at 853-1544.

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Diana Baird
Messenger Index

Published 6-13-14