Portion of highway dedicated to Mid-Michigan hero
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Bay City, MI (WNEM) — A local hero who gave his life for his country was honored on Sunday.
“He was not just a soldier. He was also a loved one,” said Melissa Alex, family friend of Sgt. First Class Michael Cathcart. “Keeping his memory alive is important.”
Cathcart died in combat in Afghanistan six years ago. A memorial highway was dedicated to the fallen hero in Bay City on Sunday, Sept. 20.
“One of the worst things for a family member of someone that has given their life for our country is to think that he’ll be forgotten,” Alex said.
But now, as cars drive along M-15, they will pass a sign reminding them of the warrior and his service to the nation.
Senator Kevin Daley helped make this moment happen after a friend of Cathcart’s grandmother shared with him their hopes of dedicating a highway in his honor.
“And I said, ‘boy, if I’m fortunate enough to get elected, we’ll take that on as project number one,” Daley said.
He followed through on the promise knowing the pain of losing a son.
“I personally have lost a son at the same age as Michael. He wasn’t in the military. It was a farming accident at home, but I know that feeling and it will never go away,” Daley said.
Sunday’s dedication took place on the birthday of the fallen hero’s mother.
“Therefore, today is very special for her. I know that she’s very emotional,” Alex said.
Although Cathcart is no longer here, his memory lives on M-15.
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