WWII combat veteran honored at bridge dedication ceremony
Rep. Frank Burns October 12, 2018 | 1:59 PM
EBENSBURG, Oct. 12 – Today state Rep. Frank Burns, D-Cambria, held a ceremony to dedicate the Paul E. Sweeney Memorial Bridge located along Overbridge and Railroad streets in Lilly.
Born in 1919 in Lilly, Sweeney entered in the Army at age 22 and was trained as a combat engineer. He saw action in the St. Lo campaign after landing at Normandy and received a Silver Star for his actions in combat. He was further awarded the Purple Heart for injuries he received from a German sniper.
“I am honored to be able to name this bridge in Paul’s name,” Burns said. “Paul and his fellow soldiers fought and sacrificed for their nation, for freedom, liberty and for democracy through some of history’s darkest days. This memorial and those like it ensure that future generations will not forget the sacrifices that have been made to protect our great nation.”
Sweeney, who was discharged in 1945 with the rank of First Sergeant, was also awarded a British Military Medal inscribed by the King of England for his service. Upon returning to the United States he worked as a train crewman for the Pennsylvania Railroad and Conrail and raised six children. He was an active member and volunteer in both the Veterans of Foreign Wars and American Legion organizations.
“Paul is an exemplary example of the aptly named ‘Greatest Generation,’” Burns said. “Not only did he serve his nation in a time of war, but he continued his dedicated service throughout his long life. His life and service stand as a lesson for all of us, and are something that all of us should strive to emulate.”
State Rep. Frank Burns, D-Cambria, is joined by Paul Sweeney’s daughter, Ruth VanGuilder and son, John Sweeney, at the dedication ceremony in Lilly.