Nebraska Medal of Honor Highway receives new sign
In the world of military service, the Congressional Medal of Honor is a decoration of the highest order. It is the most esteemed award that can be given to a serviceman.
It was January 31st that Governor Ricketts signed legislation to turn Nebraska’s portion of US Highway 20 into Nebraska Medal of Honor Highway.
It was a show of reverence that doubles as being the largest monument in Nebraska’s history.
“A memorial never to be forgotten,” said Daryl Harrison, Vice Commander of the Nebraska Department of the American Legion. “A memorial to Nebraska’s greatest military heroes.”
On July 2nd, one of two signs for that monument was revealed at Siouxland Freedom Park in South Sioux City.
“Siouxland Freedom Park has been designated as the center of that great highway,” Harrison said. “From the Pacific to the Atlantic.”
It was a reveal that was a year in the making, and Harrison is relieved to finally reach this day.
“Today, now that we’ve concluded the event, is a great weight off my shoulder,” Harrison said. “I operate for 73 of Nebraska’s greatest heroes.”
That is 73 Nebraskan medal of honor recipients of over 3,500 in the nation.
“Looking at what’s to come, it’s onward and forward,” Harrison said.
The American Legion wanted to perform a statewide walk event for Nebraska’s Medal of Honor recipients in May, but was cancelled due to COVID-19. The sign reveal was also a means to get the wind back in their sails.
“We will ready ourselves for that walk across Nebraska,” Harrison said. The Legion plans to hold the event next year.
Harrison says the Medal of Honor title doesn’t overwrite the western portion of the highway dedicated to Crazy Horse.
Rather, it only reaffirms the 20 as a trail of legends.
“In fact what this is, this is a warrior’s highway,” Harrison said.