Officials at the SP4 Herman E Anders Jr Memorial Bridge unveiling Ceremony on June 30. (Photo by Kelli Miller)

FENTON — On Monday, a large crowd of officials, veterans, families and friends gathered for the bridge dedication located at State Highway 12, spanning across the Chenango River from Greene to Fenton. 

The American Legion Lloyd O Jackson, Post 692 led the ceremony with a colorguard. They carried the American flag, New York State flag, the US Army flag and the pow/MIA flag.

New York State Assemblyman Joe Angelino said a portion of the state highway will be known as "SP4 Herman Emil Anders, Jr. Memorial Bridge" in honor of Anders heroism and sacrifice for our Country.

Many participants and the Anders siblings traveled from out of state to share the recognition of this monumental unveiling.

Anders was a resident of Greene before he joined the US Army in 1965. He was an SP4 assigned to the A Company, 3rd  platoon, 3rd Battalion, 22nd Infantry and earned many medals for heroism during the Vietnam War. 

He served as the artillery battery of the 4th  Infantry Division and a team leader on a combat operation.

Anders directed his unit to withdraw to secondary position as he became aware of enemy targets and displayed great bravery as he engaged with hostile forces, before being overwhelmed by the enemy.

Anders was killed in action in Vietnam, in 1967.

Angelino thanked the veterans for their service when called and asked the crowd to not be sad.