The South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs will be hosting a State Bridge Dedication Ceremony to honor U.S. Army Private First Class John Tuin.

The ceremony will be Aug. 2 at 1:30 p.m. at the American Legion Post 184 in Estelline, 222 Main St.

The state Highway 28 bridge over the Big Sioux River, west of Estelline, will be dedicated as the Pfc John Tuin Bridge.

Tuin was reported missing in action on Oct. 6, 1952, while fighting the enemy in Korea. Tuin’s remains are still unaccounted for.

Naming bridges in honor of our combat veterans who died while serving their country is an initiative of Gov. Kristi Noem and the South Dakota departments of military, transportation, and veterans affairs.

“Our fallen heroes are no longer with us, but their memories live on in the hearts of their loved ones,” said Greg Whitlock, secretary of the South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs. “Naming our South Dakota bridges in honor of our fallen gives us the opportunity for remembrance, reflection, and respect. It helps us to honor the men and women who gave their lives in service to this nation. They cherished liberty and loved freedom so much, they were willing to lay down their lives to preserve our way of life.”