Portion of M-53 to be renamed in Macomb County

State Rep. Jeff Yaroch with state Rep. Sheryl Kennedy on the House floor speaking in support of the plan to honor fallen U.S. Navy Chief Petty Officer Jason Freiwald.

A plan from state Rep. Jeff Yaroch and co-sponsored by state Rep. Sheryl Kennedy to honor fallen U.S. Navy Chief Petty Officer Jason Freiwald was approved this week unanimously by the Michigan House.

A portion of M-53 in Macomb County between 31 Mile Road and 32 Mile Road would be known as the Chief Petty Officer Jason Freiwald Memorial Highway.

Freiwald, a U.S. Navy SEAL, suffered wounds during combat operations with heavily armed militants in Afghanistan on Sept. 11, 2008. He died on Sept. 12, 2008 at the age of 30.

“Chief Petty Officer Freiwald is a dedicated hero, and this memorial highway recognizes his bravery and ultimate sacrifice for our freedoms,” said Yaroch, of Richmond. “We must recognize the men and women who continue to defend our country and honor those who put their lives on the line.”

Freiwald was born on Dec. 20, 1977 in Utica. He later graduated from Armada Senior High School. He enlisted in the Navy on April 25, 1996, and reported to Recruit Training Command in Great Lakes, Illinois.

As a music teacher in Armada, Rep. Kennedy had the distinct honor of having Jason and his siblings as students from kindergarten to sixth grade.

“I can honestly say that even at that young age, there was no sweeter, more giving child or devoted family,” said Kennedy, of Davison “Although losing Jason has been tragic to the community that knew and loved him, especially his parents and brothers that also bravely served their country, I’m proud to stand with my colleagues to memorialize his service and sacrifice.”

Freiwald served on SEAL Team 5 for two years before transferring to SEAL Team 3 in Coronado.

House Bill 4061 moves to the Senate for consideration.

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