SD BRIDGE TO BE DEDICATED IN HONOR OF U.S.M.C PRIVATE FIRST-CLASS RONALD C. DEXTER


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FOR RELEASE: Friday, July 18, 2025

For information, contact: DJ Montreal at 605.204.9241 or dj.montreal@state.sd.us, South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs.

Sioux Falls, S.D. – The South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs will be hosting a State Bridge Dedication Ceremony to honor United States Marine Corps Private First-Class Ronald C. Dexter.

The ceremony will be Saturday, August 2, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. (CT) at the Grant County 4-H Grounds in Milbank (517 Flynn Drive).

This dedication is part of the Fallen Heroes Bridge Dedication Program, which was launched during the Noem-Rhoden Administration and expanded under Governor Rhoden. In partnership with the South Dakota Departments of Military, Transportation, and Veterans Affairs, this program creates visible and enduring tributes that connect communities to their history and remind future generations of the cost of freedom.

“It is an honor to recognize the brave men and women who gave their lives for our freedom,” said Secretary of Veterans Affairs Jeremiah Schneider. “The Fallen Hero Bridge Dedication program ensures their sacrifice is remembered every day. These dedications serve as lasting symbols of gratitude and respect, connecting our communities to the legacy of those who served. “

The HWY 15 Bridge – North Fork Yellow Bank River south of Milbank, will be dedicated as the PFC Ronald C. Dexter Bridge.

PFC Ronald C. Dexter was born on May 21, 1947, in Graceville, Minnesota. Dexter served in the United States Marine Corps as a rifleman (0311) with D Company, 1st Battalion, 26th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division. At the age of 19, Dexter was deployed to South Vietnam in 1966. On September 19, 1966, while serving in Quang Tri Province, he was killed in action by small arms fire.

“As we honor their memory, we also reaffirm our commitment to support veterans and their families in every way possible,” continued Schneider. “Through these bridges, their stories remain a vital part of South Dakota’s heritage and a constant reminder of the freedoms we cherish.”