McCaskill’s bid to rename bridge after Cardinal great successful after Senate passage, President’s signature expected soon
WASHINGTON – Legislation naming the new I-70 bridge over the Mississippi River in St. Louis the “Stan Musial Veterans Memorial Bridge” unanimously passed the U.S. Senate today, and is expected to be signed by President Obama.
“As Jack Buck would say, ‘That’s a winner,’” said U.S. Senator Claire McCaskill, who introduced the legislation earlier this year. “It’s a good day for St. Louis, Cardinal Nation, and the Musial family—and I’m thrilled the Stan Span will soon be a reality.”
The legislation passed today is expected to be quickly signed by the President.
Earlier this year, McCaskill introduced bipartisan legislation in the Senate to name the bridge.
In 2010, a bi-state Congressional delegation encouraged President Obama to consider Musial for the Presidential Medal of Freedom—an honor he received on February 15, 2011.
The Presidential Medal of Freedom recognizes those who have made an “especially meritorious contribution to the security or national interests of the United States, world peace, cultural or other significant public or private endeavors.” The award was first given by President Harry S. Truman in 1945 to honor civilian service and was revived in 1963 by President John F. Kennedy.
Quote from the Musial family:
“We are very grateful that the new Mississippi River Bridge will be named the Stan Musial Veterans Memorial Bridge. Our father would be particularly proud to be forever linked to the many men and women who have bravely and selflessly served our nation.”
–the Musial Children (Dick Musial, Gerry Ashley, Janet Schwarze and Jean Edmonds)