Legislation designating a portion of State Route 53 the “Catawba Island Township Veterans Memorial Highway” has been approved by the Ohio House of Representatives. The legislation was introduced to honor Private First Class William Galloway and SP4 James Davenport, both of whom were killed in action.

“As the father of an armed services member, I am especially conscious of the sacrifices that our veterans and the families’ of our veterans suffer in order to protect our country,” said Rep. Steven Arndt of Port Clinton. “These brave men and women go to battle for the freedoms we civilians enjoy each and every day. The naming of this section of the highway, where both of these veterans enjoyed some of the happiest days of their lives, will serve as a reminder to recognize and honor their lives and sacrifice, while reminding our community members of the debt we owe our armed services members.”

The legislation, originally introduced by Arndt, was passed as part of House Bill 276. The portion of State Route 53 that would be designated is between Water Street and the Catawba Island Township line in Ottawa County. The measure will now move to the Ohio Senate.