HARRISBURG – Legislation to designate State Routes 3035 and 3033 as the Captain David Eric Pannabecker POW-MIA Memorial Highway was unanimously approved on Monday by the Senate.
The legislation, Senate Bill 1395, was introduced by the Berks County Senate Delegation in memory of Capt. Pannabecker after a suggestion by local residents. The six-mile stretch of roadway runs through Robesonia Borough and Heidelberg, North Heidelberg and Penn Townships in Berks County.
Captain Pannabecker went missing while on a day rescue mission after his aircraft, the “Super Jolly Green Giant,” a heavy lift helicopter, went down in Cambodia while on a day rescue mission on March 27, 1972.
Senators Folmer, Argall, Schwank and Rafferty applauded the bill’s passage earlier this week in the Senate.
Senator Folmer (R-48) applauded the Senate’s action to honor the local POW-MIA. “This legislation is a small token of appreciation for Capt. Pannabecker service, and a daily reminder for all who travel the highway to never forget those servicemen who did not come home,” said Folmer.
“This legislation is a Berks County team effort spurred by local residents in an effort to honor a brave and noble American,” said Senator Argall (R-29).
“This highway designation will stand as a permanent tribute to a brave son of Berks County,” said Senator Rafferty (R-44).
“Senate Bill 1395 is a fitting tribute to a member of our community who served our country so bravely and selflessly,” added Senator Schwank (D-11).
Senate Bill 1395 now moves to the House of Representatives for its consideration.
Contact: Jon Hopcraft
(717) 787-2637
(570) 773-0891