Captain James A. Graham Interchange

Act 178 of 2002, § 4, under ALLEGHENY, CAMERON, CLEARFIELD, ELK, WASHINGTON AND WESTMORELAND COUNTIES HIGHWAYS AND INTERCHANGES - DESIGNATIONS.

Act 178 of 2002, § 4

Section 4. Captain James A. Graham Interchange.

(a) Findings.--

(1) On June 2, 1967, in the Republic of Vietnam, Captain

James A. Graham, Wilkinsburg, displayed conspicuous gallantry

and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the

call of duty.

(2) As the leader of 2nd Platoon of Company F, Captain

Graham was leading his platoon across a paddy area 1,000

meters wide when it came under fire from mortars and small

arms that immediately inflicted a large number of casualties.

(3) Forming an assault unit, Captain Graham assaulted

one machine gun nest, relieving pressure on his platoon,

allowing the wounded to be evacuated. Despite being twice

wounded, Captain Graham accounted for 15 enemy kills.

(4) With the enemy position remaining invincible,

Captain Graham chose to remain at the side of a wounded

comrade rather than withdraw. Captain Graham died while

protecting himself and the wounded man he chose not to

abandon.

(5) Captain Graham's outstanding courage, superb

leadership and indomitable fighting spirit undoubtedly saved

the 2nd Platoon from annihilation and reflected great credit

upon himself, the Marine Corps and the United States Naval

Service.

(b) Designation authorized.--The interchange with I-376 in Monroeville is hereby designated and shall hereafter be known as the Captain James A. Graham Interchange in recognition of the Medal of Honor recipient.

(c) Signs.--The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission shall erect appropriate signs at the interchange displaying the designation under subsection (b).