In 2005, Interstate 840 was named the “Tennessee National Guard Parkway” as a lasting tribute to the brave men and women who fight and die for our country. Friday, September 28, a formal unveiling ceremony took place at the Lebanon National Guard Armory, dedicating each bridge along I-840 to an individual fallen soldier from the mid-state area. The Stewarts Ferry Pike Bridge was dedicated to Sergeant Shannon D. Taylor of Smithville, who was killed in the line of duty while serving in Iraq. The Bridge will now be known as the “Sergeant Shannon D. Taylor Memorial Bridge.”
State Senator Mae Beavers (R – Mount Juliet) attended the ceremony and presented the Taylor Family with a Senate Resolution honoring Sergeant Shannon D. Taylor for his service and ultimate sacrifice for this country.
“I am honored to be a part of this special day for the Taylor Family. Sergeant Taylor exemplified his strong sense of pride and true love for this country through his sacrifice. Because of his actions and those of his fallen comrades, we are able to enjoy our rights and freedoms here in America,” stated Beavers.
“I also believe this is a time to recognize the families of the soldiers and the sacrifices they have made in their own lives. Sergeant Taylor gave his life so that others may continue to enjoy freedom in America, but his actions were a direct refection of the love and support he received from his family and friends. I thank the family for all they have done for our country,” continued Beavers.
The memorial ceremony featured remarks from Governor Phil Bredesen and Major General Gus L. Hargett, Jr., Tennessee Army National Guard Adjutant General. Several legislators and local government officials were also on hand for the dedications.
Archived News & Obituaries