(KIWA Staff Photo)Hospers, Iowa (RI) — Family, fellow veterans, and community leaders gathered Monday to honor the memory of a Sioux County soldier killed 20 years ago to the day.
A sign on the bridge over Willow Creek north of Hospers on Highway 60 now designates it as “The Private First Class William Thorne Memorial Bridge.” Thorne’s widow, Corey Thorne Schlenker, says the memorial answers a hope she has carried for years.
Thorne was 26 when he was killed by an improvised explosive device that detonated near his vehicle in Baghdad on August 24th, 2006. Monday’s ceremony included remembrances of his life and service, prayers, and a message from Reverend Duane Tinklenberg, who was Thorne’s pastor and officiated his funeral.
Tinklenberg noted the symbolism in the bridge, saying the Christian belief that Christ serves as a bridge between people and God was a comfort to Thorne and continues to comfort his family.
Retired Iowa Army National Guard Major and Sioux County American Legion Commander Cory Van Sloten spearheaded the memorial designation, which received support from the Sioux County Board of Supervisors.
Schlenker says Willow Creek is an especially fitting location.
She thanked those who have supported the family over the past 20 years — and those who continue to speak Thorne’s name.
Schlenker closed by reflecting on how she hopes Thorne will be remembered.
The dedication ceremony was held in Alton, followed by installation of the memorial sign on the bridge over Willow Creek.
