| For Immediate Release | For more information contact: |
| February 21, 2000 | Lindsay Sander (651-297- 5600) |
ST. PAUL Members of the House Transportation Policy Committee approved a measure to designate Interstate 35 as the Red Bull Division Highway on Thursday. Rep. Tom Workman (R- Chanhassen) authored the bill to honor one of Minnesota's most noteable military division.
"The solders of the Red Bull Division paid a tremendous price for our freedom," said Rep. Workman, who is the chair of the House Transportation Policy Committee. "They have a long list of military experience from World War I and played an extensive role in the Mediterranean Sea during the second World War, participating in 11 battles."
If the legislation is passed by the Legislature, I-35 would be designated as the "34th Infantry, or Red Bull, Division" Highway. Signs would be posted in honor of the designation at 11 rest stops on I-35 from Duluth to the Iowa boarder. Currently, there is no monument in the state to honor the nation's 34th army infantry division.
"This is a cause worthy of recognition," continued Rep. Workman. "Thousands of dedicated solders from Minnesota, Iowa, and North and South Dakota served in the Red Bull Division for their the nation and our state in a time of need. Honoring their courage, sacrifice and commitment to this country is the right thing to do."
The proposed legislation was brought to Rep. Workman by members of a group that participate in ongoing World War II roundtable discussions at Fort Snelling. The group is dedicated to the preservation of the military history of the 34th Infantry Division. The 34th Infantry, or the Red Bull, Division is noteworthy for several reasons. It was the first military division to sail over seas during World War II and spent more days in combat than any other division during the war.
The bill will now be considered by the full House of Representatives. The Senate is also considering this legislation.
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