A Chenango County Vietnam War hero will have a bridge in Norwich renamed in his honor.

A bill that Assemblyman Joseph Angelino introduced was signed into law, renaming portions of the state highway system the SP4 Herman Emil Anders, Jr. Memorial Bridge.

As a decorated soldier who participated in Operation Junction City, Specialist Anders received awards such the Bronze Star, Purple Heart, and National Defense.

As Anders ordered his unit to retreat to the secondary position, he was exposed to rocket fire and extremely accurate small-arms strikes to identify enemy targets. Before being overrun by opposing forces, SP4 Anders battled several enemy soldiers. Anders is buried in Chenango County's Sylvan Lawn Cemetery.

"He is an American hero. Being the Assembly sponsor of the bill that renamed this bridge makes me extremely proud. I also want to express my gratitude to my close friend Sen. Oberacker, the Senate sponsor, for his tireless efforts. I sincerely hope that this bridge will be a lasting reminder of Specialist Anders. Angelino stated, "This act of renaming a bridge to honor Specialist Anders should work to do just that. We must always remember those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our great nation," said Angelino.