For the Reporter
Kent will honor its veterans by permanently renaming South 231st Way as Veterans Drive at an 11 a.m. ceremony Friday, May 31 at the intersection of Russell Road and South 231st Way in Kent.
The public, veterans, their friends and families are invited to attend.
Kent Elementary first-grade singers will greet event attendees with music before the start of the ceremony.
Other highlights include:
• National anthem, performed by Petty Officer Sarah Reasner, U.S. Navy Band Northwest
• Remarks by Rep. Adam Smith, U.S. Congressman, 9th District
• Remarks by Commander Chris Sutherland, executive officer, Navy Recruiting District Seattle
• Rifle salute by the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Kent Meridian Post 6785
• Unveiling of the new Veterans Drive signs
• Performance by the Kentwood High School JROTC Drill Team
• Motorcycle and military vehicle procession
Mayor Suzette Cooke said the project was requested by Kent resident, Marcus Shelton, as a way to honor veterans for their dedication and service to the country, especially his father, the late Thomas E. Shelton, who retired after 26 years in the U.S. Air Force.
“South 231st Way will be renamed Veterans Drive where it intersects at Russell Road, and continue west over the Colonel Joe M. Jackson Bridge and end at Military Road,” Cooke said. “Military Road opened up supply lines between military forts when it was first completed in 1860, making it one of the oldest roads in Washington. Now it will be appropriately connected with a bridge dedicated to local World War II veteran and Medal of Honor recipient Colonel Joe M. Jackson.”
South 228th Street to Military Road will be closed between 9:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. for the event.
Kent Police will provide traffic direction and parking assistance for event attendees on Russell Road. Carpooling is encouraged.
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