MCLEAN CO, KY (WFIE) -
Three fallen soldiers, all who died overseas at young ages fighting for our freedom, now have highways named in their honor in the McLean County area.
Families have waited what seems like a lifetime for this day. On Monday, three highways in McLean County get new names, honoring fallen soldiers for life.
The first is Sergeant David B. Magruder.
"I got to spend the summers down here as a kid living with my grandparents. His mom and dad. Used to go to drag races with him," said Magruder's nephew, Keith Magruder.
Highway 140 will now be known as Sergeant David B. Magruder Memorial Highway.
"I think it's great they're doing this. I don't think individuals that sacrifice for this country get enough recognition for what they do," Keith said. "The ultimate sacrifice. Vietnam was an ugly war and coming back from it was ugly. It means a tremendous amount. It actually even works out that this passes the family farm where he grew up."
Specialist Robert Jason Settle gave his life during Operation Iraqi Freedom. Highway 81 will know be known as Specialist Robert Jason Settle Memorial Highway.
"Jason was a good kid. He was only 26 when he passed away," said Settle's aunt, Rhonda Mandrell. "He had a young daughter. He'd always give you a hug. I miss those hugs."
Major David Randall Mackey died during the Vietnam War. 136 East is being named Major David Randall Mackey Memorial Highway.
"There were three of us, and in my opinion, he was the best of the three," said Mackey's brother, Carl Mackey. "He loved kids. That was his big thing over there. What they could do to help the children."
Mackey says he'll think of his brother every time he drives on his highway.
"Might make it hard to drive. Might have tears in my eyes. We miss him, but he's in a lot better place now," Carl said.
These families say they want people to not only remember their fallen loved ones, but all soldiers that have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.
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Highway 140 will now be known as Sergeant David B. Magruder Memorial Highway.
Specialist Robert Jason Settle gave his life during Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Major David Randall Mackey died during the Vietnam War.
