Murphy passes bill establishing Marine Capt. Eric A. Jones Memorial Highway

ALBANY, NY - On October 26, 2009, Marine Captain Eric A. Jones, 29, of Pound Ridge, gave his life for his country during Operation Enduring Freedom on a combat mission in Helmand Province, Afghanistan. Today, State Senator Terrence Murphy passed his third piece of legislation this year in the State Senate, which seeks to honor Jones by ceremonially renaming a highway after him in his hometown.

Captain Jones was killed in action on his third deployment, after having served two tours in Iraq. He grew up in Pound Ridge and earned his flight wings in 2007 after graduating from Northeastern University in 2004.

"Captain Jones had always dreamed of becoming a pilot, from his days at Fox Lane High School where he was a legendary lacrosse star and standout on the swimming and football teams," Murphy said. "His loss was a tragedy for us all. We can never repay his heroic sacrifice for our great country, but we can, in our own small way, commemorate his service by dedicating this highway in memoriam to his noble service, so that he will always be remembered."

According to numerous published accounts, Jones, a passionate 6'3" Marine, was known for his good looks, gregariousness, quick-witted sense of humor and dedication to his community. His call sign was 'Jethro' and the pilot led numerous combat missions, including several where he saved the lives of ground troops.

The bill authored by Murphy would designate the portion of State Route 137 from its intersection with Westchester Avenue to its terminus at the New York-Connecticut Border as the Marine Captain Eric A. Jones Memorial Highway. Should the bill pass the Assembly and be signed by the Governor, a dedication ceremony would be held later on this year.

Heroes in Transition, Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to providing assistance to veterans in need who are reintegrating, which has held several charity events in the area, was founded in Jones' memory.

Captain Jones' decorations included the Air Medal with gold numeral one, 6 Strike/Flight awards, and Combat Distinguishing Device, and the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement medal with two gold stars.