Laurel Highlands Today

Sen. Pat Stefano (R-32) held a ceremony on Sept. 20 to dedicate the Leroy Freeman Berkebile Memorial Bridge. The event took place in North Star Middle School’s parking lot, with local officials, students, teachers, and Berkebile's family and friends in attendance.

“It is my hope that generations to come see this bridge and honor Captain Berkebile’s legacy by upholding the values he fought for—freedom, bravery and service to others,” Stefano said. “His story is tremendous and serves as an excellent reminder that the work we do here in Somerset County often has a national and even global impact that could last for generations to come.”

Vince Greenland from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation unveiled the new signage at the bridge during the ceremony.

“Captain Berkebile’s sacrifice and dedication to our country will always be remembered in Somerset County,” said Rep. Carl Walker Metzgar (R-69). “His decorated military record – coupled with his heroism on and off the battlefield – showcases how special of a person he was. No matter the task at hand, he fought valiantly to protect the people beside him.”

Berkebile joined the Navy after Pearl Harbor in 1942. He served as a pilot during World War II and the Korean War, earning the Distinguished Flying Cross for his valor.

After serving with Fighter Squadron 92 in Korea, Berkebile became a fleet gunnery instructor at "Top Gun" school. In 1954, he was promoted to captain and held various Air Wing Command positions before returning to civilian life.

Berkebile also worked as a pilot for American Airlines. In 1972, he volunteered as relief pilot during a hijacking of American Airlines Flight 119 and later responded to another hijacking incident involving Flight 293.

“In the face of adversity, he displayed incredible poise and composure when he volunteered as relief pilot. I am forever grateful for Captain Berkebile’s service,” Metzgar said.

After retiring from American Airlines, Berkebile flew private charters with Priester Aviation, LLC., including serving as Frank Sinatra’s pilot.

“His life is the story of a local Stoystown-area farm boy and coal miner who rose from those humble beginnings to the pinnacle of success in American aviation,” said Berkbile’s son, Jack Berkebile. “He was truly a leader of the Greatest Generation and served his country in three wars. He commanded respect from all who knew or came into contact with him."

Berkebile leaves behind several family members, including five sons who followed careers in aviation or military service.

“His commitment to protecting others, both in the military and throughout his civilian life, truly showcases what it means to be an American hero,” Stefano said. “It’s a privilege that we are able to celebrate such a full, selfless heroic life well-lived.”

The legislation naming state Route 403 over Stonycreek River in Quemahoning Township as Leroy Freeman Berkebile Memorial Bridge was signed into law as Act 63 of 2024.