State Rep. Carl Walker Metzgar | Pennsylvania 69th Legislative District
State Rep. Carl Walker Metzgar | Pennsylvania 69th Legislative District
Rep. Carl Walker Metzgar and a group of state and local officials, veterans, and community members gathered in Jerome to dedicate a bridge on East Campus Avenue over U.S. Route 219 in Conemaugh Township, Somerset County. The bridge was named in honor of Tec 5 Kenneth J. Newcomer.
Metzgar remarked on the significance of the event: “We are able to enjoy our way of life because of Tec 5 Newcomer’s bravery and selflessness. It was an honor to join his family and the community in paying tribute to a Somerset County hero. We are constantly reminded how freedom comes at a very steep price. We will never forget the ultimate sacrifice he made to preserve our freedoms.”
The dedication ceremony took place at the Jerome Volunteer Fire Department on Friday, Nov. 15, where attendees shared stories about Newcomer's life and legacy.
Tec 5 Newcomer, one of nine siblings, enlisted for military service in January 1944 during World War II. He served with the U.S. Army Second Engineer Combat Battalion, Company C in Europe, participating in D-Day operations before being killed in action on Oct. 9, 1944, in Belgium. For his bravery under fire during the battle for Hill 192 in June 1944, he received the Silver Star.
Before his military service, Newcomer was part of the Civilian Conservation Corps as a teenager.
The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation has installed signage on the bridge to commemorate Newcomer's contribution.
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