SHERMAN, Texas (KXII) – Along Highway 70 in Oklahoma, between Boccito and Bennington, there's a bridge that carries more than just cars.
The bridge has a name and a story behind it: Specialist Jacob Ray Pruitt Memorial Bridge.
“He was really good at everything he did. All the coaches really liked him,” said Michael Pruitt, Jacob's father.
Jacob Pruitt always knew he wanted to serve.
In fact, he graduated from Bennington High School on a Thursday and left for basic training the following Monday.
After completing his training, Jacob returned to Oklahoma and served as a cavalry scout in the Oklahoma National Guard.
During his service, he received several awards, including the Army Achievement Medal, the National Defense Medal, and the Army Medal.
But in March 2023, tragedy struck.
“He was training at McAlester,” Michael Pruitt said. “Unfortunately, he didn't pass.”
Jacob suddenly collapsed, became unresponsive and died.
But his memory and the energy he carried will live on.
“I think about him every day. I was a proud father and he was a good kid,” Michael Pruitt said. “He was always an honor roll student in high school and helped everyone who needed help. I'm glad more people can read his name, even if they don't know him. Masu.”
On Saturday, members of Jacob's former squadron, Bravo Troop, 1st Squadron, 1-180th Cavalry Regiment, unveiled a marker honoring Jacob's legacy.
His name will forever be engraved on a section of Highway 70, along the road to his hometown.
“This is on the route we drive to work every day, and his hometown is only 11 miles from here,” Michael Pruitt said. “Now all of his family and friends can drive by and remember him and think about him any time they want. This is how we cross the bridge here at Big Creek.”
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