The Register-Herald, Beckley, West Virginia

Local News

August 7, 2009

Bridge dedication to honor soldier

By Courtney D. Clark

U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Jeremy A. Brown, of native of Mabscott, died July 3, 2005, during his second deployment in Iraq.

Four years later, Brown’s sacrificial service continues to be remembered by his friends, family and community. In appreciation of his dedication to freedom, Delegate Linda Sumner, R-Raleigh, will dedicate a bridge in Brown’s honor Friday at 3 p.m. in the fellowship building of Mabscott Christian Church. The bridge that will bear the sergeant’s name crosses over W.Va. 16 leading to Mabscott.

Following the dedication service, a statue of Brown will be unveiled by a Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) representative. His is the first of many statues to be unveiled in honor of soldiers that have died in Iraq, said Jeremy’s mother, Teresa Brown.

Brown, who served with the 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment in Fort Carson, Colo., was 26 when he died in Iraq near Mosul.

“It is a sad day, because my son lost his life,” Brown said. “But I am so very proud of his service, and of all of the soldiers. I hope everyone that knew and loved Jeremy will come out Friday and celebrate his life.”

Rosemary Brown, Jeremy’s wife, of Parsippany, N.J., said they have been working on the bridge naming for well over a year.

“It is very honoring to have this bridge named after Jeremy,” she said. “His brother Jason selected this bridge because of its symbolism. This is a bridge that Jeremy drove over daily while he was growing up, and one that his family and friends still drive over.

“When we see the bridge signs, we will always be reminded of how Jeremy served, fought and died for our country,” Brown’s wife continued. “His son Seth will know what a true hero his father was, and that his actions will always be honored and remembered.”

In addition to the dedication, a representative for Sen. Jay Rockefeller, D-W.Va., will speak and refreshments will be served.

— E-mail: cclark@register-herald.com

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