State Rep. Jay DeBoyer on Tuesday testified before the House Transportation, Mobility and Infrastructure Committee on House Bill 4154, which designates a portion of M-3 in Chesterfield Township as the Senior Chief Petty Officer Jason P. May Memorial Highway.

Born and raised in Chesterfield Township, Officer May bravely served in the United States Navy for 18 years. He passed away unexpectedly at age 38 in June of 2015 while aboard the U.S.S. Essex, an amphibious assault ship which served in part of Operation Enduring Freedom.

DeBoyer said the tribute to Officer May holds special significance as the country is set to honor and mourn fallen U.S. military personnel over Memorial Day weekend.

“Officer May passed away while serving abroad and protecting both our freedoms and his fellow citizens,” said DeBoyer, of Clay Township. “This honor will allow people driving on M-3 to see his name and recognize what he gave for our country and region. His sacrifice is never forgotten, and this tribute is the least we can do to ensure that it isn’t forgotten across our area.”

DeBoyer was joined in testimony by Officer May’s father Phil, mother Pam and stepmother Theresa.

The Michigan Memorial Highway Act was enacted in 2001 and allows for the naming of bridges and highways within the state. Following DeBoyer’s testimony, HB 4154 was unanimously approved by the House Transportation, Mobility and Infrastructure Committee and now goes to the full House for consideration.

PHOTO INFORMATION: State Rep. Jay DeBoyer (right), of Clay Township, testifies on House Bill 4154 before the House Transportation, Mobility and Infrastructure Committee on Tuesday, May 23. The plan designates a portion of M-3 in Chesterfield Township as the Senior Chief Petty Officer Jason P. May Memorial Highway. DeBoyer was joined in testimony by (from left) Officer May’s mother Pam, father Phil and stepmother Theresa.