Two legislative bills authored by state Representative Jim Rigby have been enacted into law by Governor Josh Shapiro. These laws honor two local veterans by naming bridges after them in Cambria County, Pennsylvania.
“We owe a debt of gratitude to the men and women who serve and have served our country,” Rigby stated. “Placing their names front and center in the form of naming a bridge in their honor is a great way to keep their stories alive in our communities.”
The original bills were incorporated into Senate Bill 78, now Act 17 of 2025. This act designates the bridge carrying Route 53 over Bear Rock Run in Lilly Borough as the Corporal James D. Sloan Memorial Bridge. Additionally, it designates the bridge carrying Route 53 over Patty’s Run in Gallitzin Township as the USMCR Mary A. Lidwell Memorial Bridge.
Corporal James D. Sloan attended Penn Cambria High School and served during the Vietnam War. He received several medals including the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Combat Action Medal, Navy Commendation Medal, Purple Heart Medal, and Rifle Marksmen Badge.
“Cpl. Sloan struggled with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after returning home,” Rigby added. “My intent is to recognize him for not only his service but also for the challenges which he and many of our soldiers face when returning to civilian life.”
Mary A. Lidwell graduated from Gallitzin High School in 1942 and began her service as a United States Marine Corps volunteer in 1943 before joining the Women’s Aviation Reserve Squadron. She reached the rank of private first class before retiring and was awarded the Congressional Rosie the Riveter Medal for her contributions during World War II.
“PFC Lidwell’s face was a familiar one after returning home, as her passion for service continued with involvement in her church, community projects and local government,” said Rigby. “She truly was a public servant.”
