Town To Name I-86 Bridge After Stow

STOW - The Interstate 86 overpass in Stow is on its way toward commemorating John Stow following a resolution by the North Harmony Town Board.

At Monday's board meeting, a resolution was unanimously passed which designates the town's I-86 overpass bridge as the "John Stow Vietnam Veterans and MIA Memorial Bridge." This resolution was introduced following a letter from state Sen. Catharine Young to the town board.

"As you may know, Marine PFC John L. Stow was killed in action in the Vietnam War in 1968," reads Young's letter. "PFC Stow embodies the type of heroic soldier who dedicated his life to the cause of freedom for our great nation, making the ultimate sacrifice. This bridge would memorialize PFC Stow, including all soldiers that served in Vietnam, as well as all soldiers that have gone missing in action during military service (to) our country.

"I am writing to request that the North Harmony Town Board, if you should so concur with this proposal, pass a resolution in support of designating this bridge located on Route 394 which passes over I-86 in the town of Stow (in memory of Stow)," continued the letter. "Such resolution would allow this local legislation to progress through the legislative process."

As expected, the board had little to say in opposition to Young's request, and much to say in support. John Stow is the brother of board member Frank Stow.

"I would be honored to pass a resolution designating this bridge in honor of John Stow," said Richard Sena, board member. "I believe it is very important to back our senator."

Once the town passed a resolution, it is the intent of Young to introduce kindred legislation to the state Senate later in the year.

After short deliberation, the board unanimously passed the resolution.