RAPID CITY, S.D. – Family, friends, members of the military and governor’s office gathered Monday in Rapid City for a  bridge naming ceremony, dedicating a bridge to U.S Air Force 1^st Lt. Laurence Edward Radlinger for his service and sacrifice in World War II.

Radlinger, originally from Kadoka, was killed while serving on December 9, 1944, on an airfield north of France, while risking his life to save others on a downed airplane.

The bridge – located on Highway 16B, near I-90 Exit 61 – was dedicated through the state’s Fallen Heroes Bridge Dedication Program.

Staff Sgt. Jonathan Wright speaks with a member of the Radlinger family.

“My hope is whenever someone drives across that bridge it causes them to pause and think of the price of freedom that we enjoy,” S.D. Gov. Larry Rhoden said. “The lives of all those who fought to protect freedom should never be forgotten.”

The Fallen Heroes Bridge Dedication Program was launched in 2019 to honor South Dakotans who were killed in action or remain missing in action by dedicating state bridges in their memory. Each dedication serves as a lasting tribute to the men and women who gave their lives in service to our nation and to the ideals of freedom and liberty.

To date, 90 bridges have been dedicated to honor 96 South Dakota service members.

The ceremony was held at the Minneluzahan Senior Center in Rapid City.

Daniel Brusseao presents the National Anthem.

South Dakota Gov. Larry Rhoden speaks with members of the Radlinger family.