Heroes Way

Generous donors have responded to efforts to raise money for special signs along Interstate 55 in Southeast Missouri honoring soldiers who lost their lives while serving in Iraq or Afghanistan since Sept. 11, 2001. As a result, four of the signs are scheduled to be up by Memorial Day, and donations for other signs around the state are being accepted.

Ross Gartman of Delta has been a key organizer of the fundraising effort for the signs, part of the Heroes Way Interchange Designation Program. And Gordonville Grill has also played as important role.

The four signs for which money has been raised so far will honor Staff Sgt. Brad Skelton of Gordonville at exit 96, Cpl. Jeremy Shank of Jackson at exit 99, Sgt. Robert Davis of Jackson at exit 105 and Spc. Blake Hall of East Prairie at exit 58.

Said Gartman: "This community has been supportive from the get-go. That says a whole lot for this area ... ."

Donations for the sign project may be dropped off at Gordonville Grill. Checks may be mailed to 829 State Highway Z, Gordonville, MO 63752. The checks should be made payable to the Jackson Jaycees Charitable Foundation and designated for "Heroes Way."