Indy Standard

State Rep. Alex Zimmerman (R-North Vernon) has proposed renaming a local bridge over the Muscatatuck River in honor of U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Jacky Ray Koenig Jr. of North Vernon. The proposal was presented during the Interim Study Committee on Roads and Transportation.

Koenig, 20, died during a training exercise on April 9, 2017, while deployed in Okinawa, Japan, where he served as a member of Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 267. Zimmerman aims to rename the bridge southeast of Vernon after Koenig. The interim study committee is currently reviewing the proposal as the first step in the renaming process.

"Lance Corporal Koenig should not and will not be forgotten. He paid the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation and to help protect all the freedoms we enjoy," Zimmerman stated. "Renaming this bridge that stretches over the Muscatatuck River, a place that he loved to go, would be a tremendous way to honor his sacrifice and his family's sacrifice."

Koenig enlisted with the U.S. Marine Corps in 2014 after graduating from Jennings County High School. In 2017, he was promoted to lance corporal and received several honors including the National Defense Service Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and the Sea Service Deployment Ribbon for his service.

Zimmerman noted that Koenig grew up in North Vernon where he volunteered regularly to help remove litter from the Muscatatuck River. He also ran along its banks as a member of his high school's cross country team and competed in track and field events.

If supported by the interim study committee, Zimmerman plans to file a formal resolution for consideration by both chambers during the 2025 legislative session. Upon approval by the Indiana General Assembly, the Indiana Department of Transportation can proceed with renaming the bridge.

To learn more about this proposal or watch committee proceedings, visit iga.in.gov.