Legislature(2001 - 2002)
2002-02-01 House Journal
Full Journal pdf2002-02-01 House Journal Page 2116 HB 369 HOUSE BILL NO. 369 by the House Rules Committee by request of the Governor, entitled: "An Act naming bridge number 1121, across the Knik River, the Sergeant James Bondsteel Bridge of Honor; and providing for an effective date." was read the first time and referred to the Transportation Committee. The following fiscal note(s) apply: 1. Zero, Dept. of Transportation & Public Facilities The Governor's transmittal letter dated January 29, 2002, appears below: "Dear Speaker Porter: I am pleased to transmit this bill that recognizes James Leroy Bondsteel. This veteran and Alaska Medal of Honor recipient lost his life on a Glenn Highway bridge crossing the Knik River. Veterans join me in supporting this proposal to rename this bridge the Sergeant James Bondsteel Bridge of Honor. 2002-02-01 House Journal Page 2117 James Leroy Bondsteel was born on July 18, 1947 in Jackson, Michigan. He died in a traffic accident on April 9, 1987 on bridge number 1121 on the Glenn Highway while returning to his home in Houston. Mr. Bondsteel contributed greatly to his country during three tours of duty during the Vietnam War. As a Staff Sergeant, he was awarded the Medal of Honor for his conspicuous gallantry for actions in battle on May 24, 1969. In that battle he destroyed 10 enemy bunkers and rallied his troops despite his own wounds. Mr. Bondsteel remained in the Army after his Vietnam service. He was an infantry training instructor and a mentor to younger troops. He retired from the Army in the mid-1980s and moved to Alaska to work, first as a counselor at the Wasilla Vet Center and later for the U.S. Veteran's Administration in Anchorage. At the time of his death, Mr. Bondsteel left behind a wife and two young daughters. He is buried at the Ft. Richardson National Cemetery. Fellow veterans on the Alaska Veterans Advisory Council asked that the state name bridge number 1121 in honor of Mr. Bondsteel. This gesture would be a fitting tribute to the memory of this Alaska hero while recognizing the sacrifices all veterans have made for our country. Sincerely, /s/ Tony Knowles Governor"