State Rep. Seth Grove | Pennsylvania 196th Legislative District
State Rep. Seth Grove | Pennsylvania 196th Legislative District
State Representative Seth Grove held a ceremony to dedicate a bridge in York County to Corporal William E. Heilman, with members of the Stambaugh family and community leaders present. The event honored Heilman, a Vietnam War hero from York County.
"We gathered today to express our profound appreciation to Cpl. William Emory Heilman, a fallen hero of the Vietnam War," Grove stated. "We remember and honor this courageous soldier who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty with valor and an unwavering commitment to protect the freedoms we hold dear."
Heilman was born on September 11, 1947, in York County and joined the United States Marine Corps on May 26, 1966. He served in Vietnam for eight months before being killed by artillery rocket mortar on May 5, 1968, in Quang Nam Province. His service earned him numerous awards including the Purple Heart and Combat Action Ribbon.
Grove spoke about the challenges faced by Vietnam veterans upon their return home: "After witnessing the most gruesome scenes ever created by man, these kids came home to be spat on by society. To be blamed for a war they did not start," he said. "It is one of the darkest stains in our nation’s history."
The bridge over Little Conewago Creek on Pennsylvania Route 74 now bears Heilman's name. Grove expressed hope that it will serve as a lasting tribute: "Through designating the bridge...it is my hope Cpl. William Emory Heilman’s courage will continue to serve as a shining example for generations to come."