LOCK HAVEN — The House unanimously passed legislation Tuesday that would designate portions of Monument Orviston and Kato Orviston roads in Beech Creek borough and township, Liberty Township and Curtin Township as the Cpl. Milford H. Wensel Memorial Highway, state Rep. Mike Hanna announced.

Hanna’s legislation, H.B. 2264, honors the life and legacy of Wensel, a Vietnam veteran who was killed in action in 1969.

“Residents of Clinton and Centre counties wished to honor Corporal Wensel’s life and commitment to our great country,” said Hanna, D-Clinton/Centre. “So it’s only fitting that we remember this hero with a lasting tribute for his bravery and ultimate sacrifice. I am happy to be able to contribute in this way.”

Wensel was born on Dec. 2, 1948, and graduated from Lock Haven High School in 1966. In 1969, he was deployed to Vietnam, where he served with the 3rd Squadron, 4th Calvary, 25th Infantry Division, as a half-track operator.

Wensel was killed on June 5, 1969. He was 20 years old.

Following his death, Wensel was posthumously awarded the Purple Heart and the Bronze Star for his valor.

If signed into law, the state Transportation Department will be required to erect and maintain appropriate signs indicating the designation to traffic, Hanna said.

House Bill 2264 now goes to the state Senate for consideration.