North Branch to honor war hero (new law)

Marine Cpl. Johnathan Benson, a graduate of North Branch High School, was granted a purple heart after he was wounded during a second tour of duty in Iraq in 2006. The 21-year-old died from his injuries Sept. 9, 2006.

In remembrance of Benson’s sacrifice, a stretch of Highway 95 in North Branch will be renamed the “Corporal Johnathan Benson Memorial Highway.” Signed into law March 26 by Gov. Tim Pawlenty, it takes effect Aug. 1, 2010.

Rep. Jeremy Kalin (DFL-North Branch) and Sen. Rick Olseen (DFL-Harris) are the law’s sponsors.

The Transportation Department will adopt a suitable marking design and erect the appropriate signs. Community funding will pay for new signs.

HF2575/ SF2183*/CH196