Hwy. 529 renamed to honor military sacrifices
Published on Wed, Nov 18, 2009 by Beckye RandallRead More Local News
Drivers along Hwy. 529, commonly called "the flats" between Marysville and Everett, may have noticed new signs designating the roadway as the Yellow Ribbon Highway. The corridor was officially dedicated to honor active duty and former military personnel at a ceremony held November 5.
The new name is the result of the dedication of a young Everett man, Nathan Olson, who wanted to pay tribute to his older brother, Lance Cpl. Matthew Olson, and all the other current and former members of the military who call the area home.
SR 529 stretches nearly eight miles between Everett and Marysville. In addition to being a major connecting route for commuters, SR 529 also links Naval Station Everett to the base's Family Support Complex in Marysville.
"I wanted to find a project that would involve and inspire others," said Nathan, a student at Everett Community College and the son of Everett City Councilman Mark Olson. "My brother taught me the value of serving causes greater than ourselves, and I wanted to honor that service."
To achieve his goal, Nathan rallied support from city officials in Everett and Marysville, leaders from Naval Station Everett, state representatives Mike Sells and John McCoy, the Washington State Transportation Commission and the state's Department of Transportation.
"It's so fitting for this little ribbon of highway to be named in remembrance of active and former military members, since it serves as a daily corridor for those stationed and visiting here at Naval Station Everett," said Carol Moser, chair of the Washington State Transportation Commission. "Thank you for your patriotism, Nathan."
"It's a wonderful tribute to the sailors, airmen, soldiers and marines," said Commander Daniel Limberg, the base executive officer. "The name is mindful of the 10,000 dependents who remain behind when their loved ones are deployed."
Mayor Dennis Kendall, who is an Air Force veteran, spoke about Nathan's determination and passion.
"Until today, this was just another route to work or home," said Kendall. "After today, the road will serve a loftier purpose. It's a reminder of the valor and courage of all the men and women who serve our country."
The new name is the result of the dedication of a young Everett man, Nathan Olson, who wanted to pay tribute to his older brother, Lance Cpl. Matthew Olson, and all the other current and former members of the military who call the area home.
SR 529 stretches nearly eight miles between Everett and Marysville. In addition to being a major connecting route for commuters, SR 529 also links Naval Station Everett to the base's Family Support Complex in Marysville.
"I wanted to find a project that would involve and inspire others," said Nathan, a student at Everett Community College and the son of Everett City Councilman Mark Olson. "My brother taught me the value of serving causes greater than ourselves, and I wanted to honor that service."
To achieve his goal, Nathan rallied support from city officials in Everett and Marysville, leaders from Naval Station Everett, state representatives Mike Sells and John McCoy, the Washington State Transportation Commission and the state's Department of Transportation.
"It's so fitting for this little ribbon of highway to be named in remembrance of active and former military members, since it serves as a daily corridor for those stationed and visiting here at Naval Station Everett," said Carol Moser, chair of the Washington State Transportation Commission. "Thank you for your patriotism, Nathan."
"It's a wonderful tribute to the sailors, airmen, soldiers and marines," said Commander Daniel Limberg, the base executive officer. "The name is mindful of the 10,000 dependents who remain behind when their loved ones are deployed."
Mayor Dennis Kendall, who is an Air Force veteran, spoke about Nathan's determination and passion.
"Until today, this was just another route to work or home," said Kendall. "After today, the road will serve a loftier purpose. It's a reminder of the valor and courage of all the men and women who serve our country."
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