Legislation honoring Paul Mardis Jr. heads to Kasich’s desk
COLUMBUS – Staff Sergeant Paul Mardis Jr. was a decorated veteran who served America with distinction and lost his life in service to our country.
On Dec. 13, both the Ohio House and Senate passed legislation designating a portion of State Route 16 in Coshocton County as the “Staff Sergeant Paul C. Mardis Jr. Memorial Highway.” State Representative Larry Householder (R-Glenford) originally introduced the legislation as House Bill 212.
Paul grew up in Coshocton and married his high school sweetheart. Mardis joined the Army in 1998 and became a Green Beret in 2001.
Mardis earned numerous awards, including two Purple Hearts and two Bronze Stars, one of which had a “V” for valor. He was highly respected by his comrades, and known as an “organizational fanatic.”
On May 19, 2004, the Humvee in which Mardis was riding outside of Mosul, Iraq, hit an improvised explosive device or IED, seriously injuring him. He died two months later, the result of injuries sustained in the explosion. He was 25-years-old.
“It is important that we never forget those who gave the ultimate sacrifice to protect and serve our country,” Householder said. “This memorial highway is just a small token of our community’s appreciation of his life of service.”
The legislation was included in Senate Bill 134, which the House and Senate approved unanimously. The bill will now be sent to Governor Kasich’s desk to be signed into law.
Category: People & Places
