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House Gives Final Approval to Scarnati Bill Naming Bridge for Local Soldier Who Died in IraqHARRISBURG --The State House of Representatives today gave final approval to legislation sponsored by Senator Joe Scarnati (R-Jefferson) that would honor a local soldier who died in Iraq by naming a bridge after him. The legislation would name a portion of Route 219 over the Little Toby Creek, Brockway Borough, the Christopher E. Loudon Memorial Bridge. Senate Bill 380 now goes to the Governor for his signature. "This is a fitting tribute to Second Lieutenant Loudon who died in Baghdad, Iraq, in October of 2006 while serving his country as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom," Scarnati said. "A sign displaying his name will be erected at the bridge to honor his memory and his brave service and sacrifice." Loudon was born in the City of DuBois, Clearfield County, and graduated from Slippery Rock University with a degree in environmental science in 2005. After graduation, Loudon entered the United States Army on September 9, 2005, was commissioned as an infantry officer and was assigned to 2nd Platoon, Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 22nd Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade, 4th Infantry Division at Fort Hood, Texas. Second Lieutenant Loudon was killed in Baghdad, Iraq, on October 17, 2006, when an improvised explosive device detonated near his vehicle. During his service in the United States Army, Second Lieutenant Loudon received the Bronze Star Medal, the Purple Heart, the National Defense Service Medal, the Iraq Campaign Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, the Combat Infantryman Badge and the Ranger Tab.
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