Senator Ritchie Introduces Legislation Naming Ft. Drum Connector in Honor of Late 10th Mountain Division Soldier

Would Name Roadway “Paul Cerjan Memorial Highway”

State Senator Patty Ritchie has introduced legislation (S.7631) that amends highway law to name the Interstate Highway 81 Ft. Drum Connector  “Paul Cerjan Memorial Highway,” in honor of the late US Army Lieutenant General Paul G. Cerjan.

“Lieutenant General Cerjan served our country for more than 30 years,” said Senator Ritchie.  “His contributions to Ft. Drum and the North Country are without number, and it’s fitting that we name this roadway in honor of his sacrifice and service.”

A Rome, New York native, Paul Cerjan served in the US Army for 34 years, eventually rising to the rank of Lieutenant General. 

He served as the Assistant Commander for Support of the 10^th Mountain Division from 1985 to 1988.  During that time he was responsible for the planning, programming and execution of a $1.2 billion construction project, which transformed Ft. Drum from a small reserve training center to a world class military installation.

After his retirement in 1994, Lieutenant General Cerjan continued to contribute to both our nation and the North Country.  He served as CEO of several organizations in direct support of soldiers in combat and also served as president of three universities, helping to shape the minds of the future leaders of our country. In addition, he remained actively involved with the National Association of the 10^th Mountain Division and was the co-chair of the 10^th Mountain Division Scholarship Fund. 

The Interstate Highway 81 Ft. Drum Connector will provide a safer, faster and more environmentally friendly way for 10^th Mountain Division soldiers, their families and visitors to travel to Ft. Drum.  It will also enhance the rapid deployment capability of our country’s only East Coast Light Infantry Division.

“This roadway will help to better serve the soldiers who serve us every day,” said Senator Ritchie.  “The Ft. Drum Connector will help make things easier for our troops and their families. At the same time, it will enable soldiers to fulfill their duty of protecting our country with greater ease.  These were two of Lieutenant General Cerjan’s goals.” 

Earlier this month, the Jefferson County Board of Legislators unanimously approved a resolution supporting the naming of the roadway in honor of Lieutenant General Cerjan.