State Senate Passes Valesky Legislation Designating “LCpl. Jeremy Lasher Memorial Highway” in Oneida

ALBANY, NY – Legislation passed the New York State Senate today (S.2349), sponsored by Senator David J. Valesky (D-Oneida), that designates Route 365A in the City of Oneida as the “LCpl. Jeremy Lasher Memorial Highway.” Lasher was killed July 23, 2009 in Afghanistan when the vehicle he was driving hit an improvised explosive device. He was 27.

“Lance Corporal Lasher dedicated his life to public service, first as a firefighter and then as a Marine,” Valesky said. “He gave his life in service to his country, and this legislation will ensure that his sacrifice is honored and remembered in a public way.”

“Unfortunately, no bridge, building, highway or memorial can bring Jeremy back to his family. He's a hero to us because he volunteered to fight for and defend the country he loved,” Jennifer Lasher, speaking for the family, said. “Hopefully, with the naming of Route 365A after Jeremy, it will cause others to reflect, even if just for a moment, and remember the sacrifices our men and women of the Armed Services make for us.

Lasher was born in Hamilton, N.Y. on November 12, 1981. He was active in sports such as Pop Warner Football and Little League. He graduated from Oneida High School in 2000 and married Andrea Wolcik in 2006. He was a member of the Verona Fire Department and enjoyed music, golfing, snowmobiling, landscaping and spending time with his family and friends.

He enlisted in the Marine Corps on October 10, 2006 and was serving his second tour of duty when he was killed. He is survived by his wife and their son, Caden; his mother and stepfather, Vicki and Scott Arnold; his sister Jennifer Lasher; brothers Daniel and Ryan, who is also a Marine; and halfbrothers Collin and Conner Lasher. The song “Don’t Stop Believing,” by Journey, held a special meaning as a motto for Lasher and his family.

“Jeremy will always be a hero to his family and friends. Our hope is that others will remember him and what he stood for, as well as so many others that have made the ultimate sacrifice,” Jennifer Lasher said.” Jeremy’s family is most grateful to Senator Valesky and everyone in his office that has helped to make this possible. It’s been a long time coming, but knowing his name will forever be a reminder to anyone passing through his hometown makes the journey worth it. Semper Fi and ‘Don't Stop Believing.’”

State Route 365A from its intersection with State Route 5 to its intersection with State Route 365 in the city of Oneida will be designated the “LCpl. Jeremy Lasher Memorial Highway.”

The legislation will now be sent to the Assembly, where it is carried by Assemblyman William Magee.

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