Senator Peter Oberacker & Assemblyman Joe Angelino Announce Signing of Specialist Herman Emil Anders, Jr. Memorial Bridge Bill

ONEONTA, 11/11/24 - Today, State Senator Peter Oberacker (R/C - Schenevus) and State Assemblyman Joseph Angelino (R/C - Norwich) announced the signing of S5937-B/A4924-B, legislation renaming a bridge spanning the Chenango River, connecting the Town of Greene (Chenango County) and the Town of Fenton (Broome County), in honor of decorated Vietnam veteran and American hero SP4 Herman Emil Anders, Jr..

 

“Today, we honor Specialist Herman Emil Anders, Jr., a true American hero whose courage and ultimate sacrifice stand as a testament to the highest ideals of service. Facing unimaginable danger, he led his fellow soldiers to safety with selfless bravery until his final moments. Thank you to Assemblyman Angelino, a veteran and this bill’s Assembly sponsor, and to Governor Hochul for her signature. Together, we ensure Specialist Anders’ valor will live on in our hearts and in the memory of this grateful community,” said Senator Peter Oberacker.

 

“Specialist Anders is an American hero, plain and simple, and naming this bridge after him is the least we can do as a thankful state and nation. I am very proud to be the Assembly sponsor of the legislation responsible for renaming this bridge, and I also want to thank the Senate sponsor, my good friend Sen. Oberacker, whose hard work is greatly appreciated. I truly hope this bridge serves as a timeless memory of Specialist Anders. We must always remember those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our great nation, and this act of renaming a bridge to honor Specialist Anders should work to do just that,” said Assemblyman Joseph Angelino.

 

Specialist Anders was a true hero whose courage and dedication shone brightly in his service during Operation Junction City. A decorated soldier, he was awarded the Bronze Star, the Purple Heart, and the National Defense Service Medal–a testament to his bravery and commitment to his Nation. In the face of intense enemy fire, he selflessly put himself in harm’s way, identifying targets and leading his unit to safety. Despite overwhelming odds, he continued to defend his fellow soldiers, engaging enemy forces until his last moments. Specialist Anders rests now in Sylvan Lawn Cemetery in Chenango County, forever honored and remembered for his heroism and sacrifice.