Altoona Times

A section of State Route 994 over Blacklog Creek in Cromwell Township, Huntingdon County, has been officially named the Lieutenant Joseph O. Stevens Memorial Bridge. This announcement was made by Representative Rich Irvin, who authored the bill for this designation.

Lieutenant Joseph O. Stevens served as a pilot during World War II with the 9th U.S. Army Air Corps, 387th Bomb Group, 559th Squadron. His service in Ardennes, Rhineland, and Central Europe earned him the Silver Star and an Air Medal with four Oak Leaf Clusters.

After returning from the war, Stevens became a respected dentist in Orbisonia and was known as a devoted husband and father of three. He also contributed to his community as a former Boy Scout leader and was active in the Southern Huntingdon County High School Booster Club. Additionally, he played a significant role in establishing what is now known as the Huntingdon County Career and Technology Center.

"Joe Stevens loved his country and loved his community," stated Representative Irvin. "The sacrifices of people like Joe and his comrades helped shape the world we live in today and I can think of no better way to memorialize him and his patriotism than to designate a roadway where people can be reminded of his legacy every time they pass by the sign bearing his name."

Stevens passed away on January 6, 2020. The unveiling ceremony for the bridge sign was attended by Stevens' family and friends.