Designates portion of State Highway Route No. 35 as "Chosin Few Memorial Highway."
Impact
The passage of A1655 will result in the installation of signs along the designated highway, but it is notable that no state or public funds will be utilized for these purposes. Instead, the bill authorizes the Commissioner of Transportation to seek financial assistance from private sources, including gifts and grants, to cover the costs associated with producing, purchasing, and erecting the appropriate signage. This provision ensures that the memorial is funded through community support rather than state budgets, which may resonate positively with taxpayers.
Summary
Assembly Bill A1655 aims to honor the soldiers who fought in the Battle of Chosin Reservoir during the Korean War by designating a portion of State Highway Route No. 35 in Ocean County as the 'Chosin Few Memorial Highway.' The bill recognizes the bravery and sacrifices of the United Nations troops, referred to as the 'Chosin Few,' who demonstrated remarkable courage while facing overwhelming odds in one of the war's most brutal battles. The legislation is intended to serve as a lasting tribute to these military veterans and is meant to raise public awareness of their service and sacrifices.
Contention
While the bill broadly enjoys support as a commemorative act, there may be discussions regarding the funding mechanism for the highway designation signs. A reliance on private funding could raise questions about the sustainability and maintenance of the signs over time. Additionally, as the Korean War is often referred to as the 'Forgotten War,' there may be differing opinions on whether such memorials sufficiently recognize the contributions and sacrifices of veterans from this conflict compared to other military commemorations.
Relating to the designation of portions of the state highway system as memorial highways, to certain memorial markers on certain highways, and to the installation of highway signs for certain cultural attractions.
Designating a future interchange on K-10 highway as the Kris Norton memorial interchange, a portion of K-5 highway as the Rep Marvin S Robinson memorial highway, a portion of United States highway 160 as the CPL Monte Wayne Forrest memorial highway, a portion of United States highway 77 as the POW MIA memorial highway and bridge No. 82-14-6.88 (026) in Clay county as the POW MIA memorial bridge, and redesignating a current portion of the Harry Darby memorial highway for interstate highway 635.