The Senate today (June 24) approved legislation introduced by Senator Joe Pittman to recognize the sacrifice and service of a local resident during the Vietnam War.
Senate Bill 759 designates a bridge on northbound Route 119 over Route 286 in White Township, Indiana County, as the Specialist Five Timothy Rice Memorial Bridge. The bill now goes to the House of Representatives for consideration.
Senator Pittman introduced the bill at the request of Clymer American Legion Post 222, forwarding on a request by Barbara Rice, Timothy’s wife of more than 50 years before he passed away on November 24, 2020.
Rice left Marion Center High School several months before his graduation to enlist in the Army during the Vietnam War. He would later receive his diploma during a ceremony at his alma mater.
Specialist Rice served as a heavy equipment operator with the 20th Engineer Brigade in Vietnam. During his two tours of duty, he earned a Bronze Star and was awarded two Purple Hearts and other notable military citations.
After his service overseas, he returned home and continued to work as a heavy equipment operator. In addition, he and his wife owned and operated Rice’s Cafe and Store in Purchase Line for more than 25 years.
“It is fitting that we are naming a bridge that was used by Rice and his family in his honor,” said Senator Pittman. “The term ‘hero’ is used so much and so liberally, that it is only fitting that we take time to recognize those men and women who are truly heroic. That term certainly applies to a young man who answers the call of duty even before high school graduation and then serves his nation with distinction. I sincerely hope the House will quickly move this bill to the Governor and we can render the honors that Specialist Rice and his family deserve.”
Contact: Jeremy Dias jdias@pasen.gov