State Rep. Hugh Shine is looking to extend the Purple Heart Trail through Bell County. In a House bill, Shine seeks to extend the trail through a section of Interstate Highway 14.
"As a county that is so involved with veterans and with active duty military, we want to honor those that have made sacrifices for our freedom and to show others that come through what we stand for," Shine said.
In the 85th legislature, Rep. Shine passed a bill making Texas a Purple Heart state, making Aug. 7 an annual Purple Heart Day.
Last year, the Transportation Commission finalized the 25-mile segment designation of Interstate Highway 14 during its regular meeting. The proposed segment runs along with U.S. Highway 190 from the junction of Business U.S. Highway 190E in Copperas Cove to the I-35 Interstate and U.S. Highway 190 junction in Belton.
“This is an important first step to a much larger highway network that will strategically link Fort Hood and military installations across the Southern United States with ports on the gulf coast,” said Shine.
“This highway network will ultimately enhance, expedite and facilitate the deployment of military assets whenever necessary for our national defense. Additionally, the surrounding communities will be able to expand their economic development by attracting new businesses in Central Texas,” Shine said.
Rep. Shine served 30 years in the U.S. Army and Texas Army National Guard.
"I hope that when people see those purple heart signs they take a moment to remember the sacrifice of so many and to ask themselves what they can do for those still alive but affected by foreign wars," Shine said.
For information, contact Texas State Representative Hugh D. Shine's office at 512-463-0630
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