The Commonwealth Transportation Board of Virginia unanimously approved a motion to name the U.S. Route 360 bridge over U.S. 360 Business the “Staff Sergeant Jason R. Arnette Memorial Bridge.”
As most of you know, I started a website called They Have Names and came to really know SSG Arnette and his mother, Mickey. She’s just the most inspirational woman a person could meet. A true patriot!
Prior to leaving the D.C. area, I had the opportunity to “meet” Jason when I went to Arlington National Cemetery where he is buried. We sat together for a short length of time and just enjoyed each other’s company. I could almost feel his hand on my shoulder approvingly. I always wonder if I’ve done my fallen brothers and sisters justice in the stories I’ve written. And the fact that I’ve been unable to write more was weighing heavily on me. I can’t quite explain it, but sitting next to him that fall afternoon really eased my mind.
Now, SSG Arnette is being honored in a special way. A separate bill had been proposed by Sen. John Watkins, R-Midlothian, but the Board’s decision made the legislation unnecessary. The bridge will be formally renamed in either late March or early April and I’ll keep you informed.
Thank You CJ for writing this post! What a wonderful tribute to such a fine young soldier. God Bless him and his family and mother Mickey. My thoughts and prayers are with you all on the loss of your son!
That’s great, CJ. Thanks for sharing.
CJ, I did not know that you got to meet Jason. I am sure he had his hand on your shoulder. He is that kind of young man. He wrote this to his younger sister and it hold so true,
“It’s funny how things roll in your direction when you
think everything is all good in the hood. Life can switch
momentum on you in a flash, but don’t let it get you down
as long as you can still do something about it.”
he would have told and may have “Just wait it will happen” I sometimes forget to wait. God Bless you and Thank you for sharing this.
Mickey, I’ll have to find the photo I took at his grave and send it to you. I’ve only taken photos with two fallen heroes – Joshua Rechenmacher and Jason.
What a beautiful tribute to a fine young man. And good for the state of Virginia for naming the bridge in this hero’s honor. CJ, your “They Have Names” website is a real blessing. Thanks for helping us get to know our fallen warriors and their families.
CJ, thanks for letting us know. This is wonderful and Mickey, I couldnt be more happy for you. You must be so proud. Though it can never make up for what you lost, know that our love and prayers will be with you always and we are thankful for the sacrifices that Jason made for all of us. He was truly an Outstanding American and we are all the better for him having been a part of our world.
Yes, I am very proud. The reason for most of what I do is so that no one will forget their names.. Like most Gold Star Mothers, that is one of our fears. It is one way to honor them always. As you know a some of our US citizens really don’t care for our wonderful military and what they stand for. BUT I FOR ONE DO, as you do. Thank you
For anyone in the Virginia area (and beyond) who like to join us in our Celebration of Jason’s Life by dedicating this bridge. we would love to have you there. The Ceremony will begin at 11Am on Friday April 3, 2008. I would love to have all of you there.