Blair County Honors Seven Brothers with Bridge Dedication

In a heartfelt ceremony at the American Legion Post 516 Social Hall in Hollidaysburg, Blair County unveiled the Baker Brothers Memorial Bridge, honoring seven siblings from Hollidaysburg who dedicated their lives to military service during the Vietnam era.

State Senator Judy Ward, who spearheaded the legislation for the bridge's designation, remarked, "Seven from the same family. It's especially rare and remarkable." The bridge, located on Plank Road just south of the Meadows intersection, stands as a testament to the family's commitment.

The Baker brothers—Francis, Edward, Charles, Thomas, Raymond, his identical twin Philip, and Joseph—served a combined 125 years in the military. Their service began in 1956 with Francis and concluded in 1995 with Joseph. Notably, Charles served in a combat zone in Vietnam, while the others contributed in various capacities, primarily in the Air Force.

Joseph Baker, who chose the Navy over the Air Force to "forge his own way," reflected on his 24-year career, which included assignments on aircraft carriers like the USS John F. Kennedy and the USS Enterprise. He shared, "It was interesting. A lot of good times and a lot of times that were not so good."

The Baker family's roots run deep in Hollidaysburg. Their father, a molder at McLanahan's foundry, encouraged his sons to pursue military careers for better opportunities. The family was known for their strong work ethic, often tending to extensive gardens to sustain themselves.

Community members and officials gathered to celebrate the bridge's dedication, emphasizing the importance of recognizing such profound contributions. Tom Gray, founder of the Greater Pennsylvania Military Preservation Association, stated, "It's super important that the Baker brothers get recognized. They made a lot of sacrifices, and they were dedicated to the country and believed in the American way."

This dedication not only honors the Baker family's legacy but also serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by many in Blair County. The bridge stands as a symbol of gratitude and respect for those who have served.