A bill from state Sen. Bill Dodd has been approved by legislature to designate the Interstate 80-780 interchange in Vallejo as the Congressional Gold Medal Interchange.
This recognition honors the region's large concentration of veterans and other Americans who have made significant contributions to the nation in war and peace.
"With the Mare Island Naval Shipyard, Vallejo is home to thousands of veterans who have served our country," said Dodd, a Napa Democrat, in a news release. "They are soldiers, sailors, flyers and marines. At the same time, there are many who played supporting roles as engineers, mathematicians and code breakers who deserve our thanks and respect. This designation is a fitting recognition of their many contributions."
The Congressional Gold Medal is the highest expression of appreciation in the land from Congress to an individual, group or institution. Recipients include Gen. George Washington, African-American "Hidden Figures" NASA mathematicians and engineers, Native-American Code Talkers, Women Air Force service pilots of World War II, Tuskegee Airmen, Montford Point Marines, Japanese/Hispanic/ Filipino/Chinese American Veterans of World War II, and the African-American Women of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion.
According to the 2021 census, nearly 6,800 veterans live in Vallejo. One such veteran and Congressional Gold Medal recipient is Vallejo resident Luther Hendricks, a Black Montford Point marine who fought in Iwo Jima and other Pacific islands during World War II.
"I am hoping that the highway signs will be a constant reminder for travelers to appreciate our heroes and heroes who sacrificed and strived to make our nation better," said Nestor Aliga, a Vallejo veteran and activist. "I also hope that potential visitors will realize that our beloved city of Vallejo has a rich military history with a vibrant and diverse community and many great attractions worthy of their extended visit. I am very grateful to state Sen. Bill Dodd for sponsoring and to Assembly members Tim Grayson and Lori Wilson for co-sponsoring this bill and for doggedly pushing to get it passed this year."
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