Public Invited to Ceremony in Honor of World War II Hero, Topper Says

April 15, 2019

BEDFORD – Members of the community are encouraged to attend a ceremony to dedicate the Imlertown Road bridge over Imlertown Run in Bedford Township to U.S. Army 1st Lt. Eric Fisher Wood Jr., said Rep. Jesse Topper (R-Bedford/Franklin/Fulton). The ceremony will be held at the Pleasant Hill Bible Church, 2793 Briar Valley Road, Bedford, on Friday, April 26 at 2:30 p.m.

“The story of 1st Lt. Wood is one of heroism, determination and selflessness,” Topper said. “He served his country with distinction and ultimately gave his life for the cause of freedom.”

Wood, who grew up in Bedford, was a graduate of Valley Forge Military Academy and Princeton University. He served in the Pennsylvania National Guard’s Artillery Reserve until he was called to active duty to serve in Europe.

On Dec. 17, 1944, during the Battle of Bulge, Wood was separated from his unit, listed as missing in action and presumed dead. However, Wood was not dead. He joined up with other American troops in Belgium and continued to fight the Nazi menace. According to one account, Wood and the group killed more than 200 Nazi soldiers until he was killed in late January 1945. His body was discovered in the woods surrounded by seven dead Germans. It is believed Wood, who was alone, killed the seven Nazis before succumbing to his fatal wounds.

For his valor, Wood was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross, the Silver Star, the Bronze Star, the Belgian Croix de Guerre and the Purple Heart Medal.

“It is more than fitting that we honor this brave man by designating the bridge as the 1st Lt. Eric Fisher Wood Jr. Memorial Bridge,” Topper said. “I encourage the community to attend this ceremony to ensure Wood is not forgotten.”

Light refreshments will be served following the dedication. To RSVP, please call Topper’s office at (814) 623-9097, or email thess@pahousegop.com, by Friday, April 19.

Representative Jesse Topper
78th District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Greg Gross
717.260.6374
ggross@pahousegop.com
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