Cook to Honor the Life of Sgt. 1st First Class Thomas L. McDonough with Bridge Ceremony

September 21, 2020

WEST BROWNSVILLE – Sgt. 1st Class Thomas L. McDonough, a native of Brownsville gave his life in service to his country during the Korean War. Rep. Bud Cook (R-Washington/Fayette) will hold a ceremony to dedicate a bridge in his name on a portion of State Route 8042 over U.S. Route 40, West Brownsville Borough, Washington County.

McDonough enlisted with the United States Army on Feb. 23, 1942 and served in World War II and the Korean War. On Sept. 6, 1950, he was killed by hostile fire in Korea. McDonough was awarded the Purple Heart Medal, the United Nations Service Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Korean Presidential Unit Citation and the Republic of Korea War Service Medal.

“Far too often, we travel by a structure dedicated to one of our many heroes who have served our country. They’ve spent their lives protecting us and defending the lives we are privileged to live,” said Rep. Cook. “The sacrifice that those like McDonough have given is never lost on me. It is because of men and women like him that we can live as free citizens. May Sgt. 1st Class Thomas L. McDonough and so many others rest in peace. Thank you for your service and a life well lived.”

A ceremony led by Cook will take place on Friday, Sept. 25, at 10 a.m. to honor the life of McDonough and officially dedicate the bridge. Elected officials and the family of McDonough will be in attendance. Pastor Paul Peternel of Christian Assembly of God, the California High School Band Ensemble and the West Brownsville American Legion Post 940 will all take part in the ceremony. A reception is to follow at the Center in the Woods at 130 Woodland Court in Brownsville.

Representative Bud Cook
49th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Michelle Swab
717.260.6325
mswab@pahousegop.com
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