Senate Approves Bill Honoring Soldiers

Westmoreland roads could be renamed for fallen heroes

The Senate today approved Senate Bill 599, a measure introduced by Senator Don White, R-41st District, that would rename two highways in honor of Westmoreland County soldiers who died while serving in Iraq.

SB 599, which would rename highways in the community of Seward in honor of PFC Ricky Hafer and SPC Aaron Rusin, is now headed to the state House of Representatives for consideration.

"I am pleased that the Senate moved this legislation forward. It is fitting that we rename these highways in these soldiers' hometown as a way to provide a lasting tribute that recognizes their service and their sacrifice," said Senator White, Chairman of the Senate Veterans Affairs and Emergency Committee.

Under Senator White's bill, State Route 56 in Seward would be designated as the "Ricky Hafer Highway," while State Route 711 would be renamed as "Aaron Rusin Boulevard." PFC Hafer died on Nov. 15, 2003 during a mid-air collision involving a Blackhawk helicopter. SPC. Rusin was killed while patrolling in a Humvee on Oct. 10, 2004.

The two soldiers were honored this past Memorial Day during a ceremony in Seward. Speaking at that event, Senator White challenged the audience to remember the two Westmoreland County men and all Americans who have made the ultimate sacrifice.

"We can never repay those like PFC Hafer and SPC Rusin who died in defense of our country; however, we can honor their memory and pay tribute to their unfailing courage," Senator White said. "They are not here to see the enormous changes taking place in the world and to celebrate the victories of democracy with us, but they brought us to this time in history and their sacrifices have not been made in vain."