Carbondale Reporter

State Rep. Paul Jacobs delivered remarks at Monday’s Westminster Bridge dedication in Marion. The bridge is adorned with a patriotic flag-themed barrier that will be lit up at night. The bridge on Route 57 sits close to the Marion VA Hospital.

Jacobs offered these remarks during the ceremony: “Ladies and Gentlemen, thank you for being here in the 118th State Representative district. To the gathered dignitaries, guests, and veterans in attendance, I am thrilled to join you today for the dedication and commemoration of the Westminster Bridge that honors our heroes…our veterans. Those men and women who have worn the uniform of this great nation in service to us all."

He continued, "Before I continue, how about we offer our thanks and appreciation with a warm round of applause for these service members…. This is an appropriate place to dedicate such a bridge, as we stand in such close proximity to the Marion Veterans Administration Hospital, a facility that restores, improves, and maintains the physical and mental health and well-being of active and retired members of the military."

Jacobs added, "No matter how many events like this I attend in my job as State Representative, I am always impressed by the ability of Southern Illinoisans to come together, recognize and honor our veterans, and pay appropriate tribute to those who gave the ultimate measure of devotion in service to this great nation, serving the greatest fighting force and the greatest force for good this world has ever known."

He concluded his speech by expressing gratitude: "I want to thank Mayor Absher, Governor Pritzker, Illinois Department of Transportation Director Omar Osmun, Senator Fowler, and the many veterans and volunteers who have made today’s event possible. May this memorial stand the test of time, and may God continue to Bless the State of Illinois and the United States of America. Thank you.”