East Central Reporter

State Representative Blaine Wilhour (R-Beecher City) recently hosted a dedication ceremony to honor the memory and sacrifice of Navy Lt. Bruce A. Williams, a St. Elmo native who tragically lost his life twenty-five years ago. The ceremony, which took place on November 13, 2023, was held at the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 7676 in Altamont and brought together family members from across the country.

Rep. Wilhour, along with State Senator Jason Plummer, sponsored House Joint Resolution 34, with Senator Plummer leading the legislation in the Senate. The resolution designates a section of U.S. Route 40 as the "Lt. Bruce A. Williams Memorial Highway," in honor of the fallen hero. This section of the highway runs from its intersection with Illinois Route 128 through St. Elmo to its intersection with North 1800 Street (Avena Road).

In a statement, Rep. Wilhour expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to pay tribute to Lt. Bruce A. Williams and his service to the nation. He said, "It is an honor to be able to recognize Lt. Williams and his sacrifice by dedicating this portion of U.S. Route 40 in his name. This memorial highway will serve as a lasting reminder of his bravery and dedication to our country."

During the ceremony, signage was installed at each end of the 6.6-mile stretch of highway, officially marking it as the "Lt. Bruce A. Williams Memorial Highway." This particular stretch of road is not only significant for its role in honoring Lt. Williams, but it is also part of the historic Cumberland Road, which was in use from 1777 to 1799.

The dedication ceremony was a solemn and emotional event, with family members gathering to remember Lt. Williams and the impact he had on their lives. Speaking at the ceremony, one family member shared their thoughts, saying, "Lt. Bruce A. Williams was a true hero, and we are grateful for this memorial highway that will forever honor his memory."

The dedication of the "Lt. Bruce A. Williams Memorial Highway" serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by members of the armed forces and their families. It stands as a symbol of gratitude for the courage and dedication displayed by Lt. Williams and countless others who have given their lives in service to our country.

As the community of St. Elmo and the surrounding area gather to pay tribute to one of their own, the memory of Lt. Bruce A. Williams will live on through the dedication of this memorial highway.

For additional details, please follow this link: https://repwilhour.com/2023/11/27/rep-wilhour-hosts-ceremony-for-st-elmo-native-section-of-u-s-40-named-lt-bruce-a-williams-memorial-highway/