Dear Neighbors,
I wanted to share with you a special story that aired on WDIO. I introduced a bill to name the Highway 53 bridge over Fayal Road and Highway 37, just south of Eveleth, after Spec. Noah Pierce. After serving two tours in Iraq, in 2007 Spec. Pierce tragically lost his battle with PTSD.
As part of the story, WDIO’s Renee Passal shared the news of the bill with Noah’s mother, Cheryl Softich. Our efforts started about two years ago when I first met with the family about the idea for the legislation. To the extent we’re able to tell, this would be the first bridge to be named after a veteran lost to PTSD in the nation.
We often work to reduce partisanship from politics, but sometimes, it’s completely absent, without even a hint of it. This is one of those times. It’s incredibly rewarding that while being such a small measure on the surface, this has an enormous impact on a family and a community.
It’s my distinct honor to carry this legislation. Beyond renaming this bridge, I’m committed to working to provide better solutions for all of our veterans so we can get them the resources they need so we don’t lose any more to PTSD.
Sincerely,
Jason Metsa
State Representative