06/01/2024
SFC Randall Shughart, a former student at Big Springs High School in nearby Cumberland County, answered the call to duty and enlisted in the United States Army. Displaying exceptional courage and determination, he completed basic training and earned his blue cord in Infantry AIT. Assigned to the elite 2nd Ranger Battalion in the 75th Ranger Regiment, he distinguished himself by earning the revered Ranger Tab. After a brief stint in the Army Reserves, Shughart's unwavering commitment led him back to Active Duty, where he was selected for Special Forces. Following rigorous training, he joined the prestigious ranks of Delta Force. Deployed to Mogadishu, Somalia in 1993 as part of Task Force Ranger, Shughart fearlessly served as a sniper team member, embodying the essence of heroism on the battlefield.
SFC Shughart displayed extraordinary valor as he provided precise sniper fire from a lead helicopter during an assault at the site of two helicopter crashes. Despite facing relentless machine gun and rocket-propelled gr***de fire, SFC Shughart fearlessly continued to suppress enemy forces at the second crash site. Upon realizing that ground forces were unavailable to secure the area, SFC Shughart and his team leader demonstrated unparalleled bravery by volunteering to be inserted to protect the wounded, fully aware of the encroaching enemy presence. Despite encountering numerous obstacles, they were eventually granted permission to execute their mission. With only a sniper rifle and a pistol, they fought their way 100 meters south of the crash site to reach the injured. SFC Shughart heroically rescued the pilot and other crew members from the wreckage, establishing security despite overwhelming odds. Displaying unwavering courage, he engaged and killed an indeterminate number of enemy combatants until he exhausted his ammunition and was mortally wounded. His selfless actions on that fateful day saved the pilot's life, epitomizing the essence of heroism and sacrifice.
This act of unparalleled heroism earned him the nation's highest honor, the Medal of Honor. We honor his courage with the dedication of this bridge, a small token of appreciation from a grateful nation. Hearing SFC Shughart's story reminds us that we stand on the shoulders of giants, embodying the values of bravery, sacrifice, and selflessness.
The dedication of the bridge came about through the efforts of State Representative Barbara Gleim, R-Cumberland County, who authored a bill to authorize its naming. Remarks were given at the dedication ceremony by State Senator Greg Rothman and US Congressman Scott Perry.
Read his Medal of Honor Citation here: https://www.cmohs.org/recipients/randall-d-shughart
