FOR RELEASE: Friday, July 25, 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 U.S. Army First Lieutenant Larry H. Barbee.

The ceremony will be Saturday, August 9, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. (CT) at The American Legion Post #92 in Redfield (612 Main Street).

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 US 212 bridge over Turtle Creek in Redfield will be dedicated as the 1st Lt. Larry H. Barbee Bridge.

1st LT Larry H. Barbee was born in Quanah, Texas, in 1945 and grew up in South Dakota with his parents, three sisters, and two brothers. Barbee entered the U.S. Army in 1966 and trained at Fort Bliss, TX, and Fort Benning, GA, where he completed Jungle Expert Training and Officer Candidate School. Barbee deployed to Vietnam in August 1968 as a First Lieutenant with Company B, 2nd Battalion (Mechanized), 2nd Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division. On June 6, 1969, during a fierce five-hour battle near An Loc, Vietnam, Barbee was killed while attempting to rescue a wounded platoon member.

“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.”