This Bucks County bridge now named for Marine from Falls killed in Vietnam

In a heartfelt tribute to a local hero, Bucks County dedicated a bridge in Falls Township in honor of Pfc. Edward N. Beers, a Marine who was killed in action on May 23, 1968.

The ceremony Tuesday renamed what was known as county bridge 220 for Beers on Mill Creek Road, about 100 feet past popular Falls Township Park in Lower Bucks. The dedication is part of an effort by the Bucks County commissioners and the Pennsylvania Vietnam Veterans Fund to honor the fallen.

Bucks County lost 136 young men in Vietnam and the intention is to honor each with a bridge dedicated to him.

Beers lost his life in Vietnam in what officials described as intense battle near Quang Tri on Hill 512 while engaging the Viet Cong. He was a member of Company K, 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, Third Marine Amphibious Force.

A fragmentation bomb claimed his life, but his bravery and ultimate sacrifice continue to be remembered by his community and fellow service members.

Beers grew up in Falls near the bridge that now bears his name. He graduated from Pennsbury High School in 1965, where he played baseball and ran for the track team, officials said. Two years later, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps.

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While he died in service to his country, Beers also lived a life rich with a passion for music and cars and an infectious sense of humor that brought joy to those around him, said those who knew him.

The ceremony featured stories about Beers' life and contributions, both on and off the battlefield.

Two of his nieces, Jeanette and Michele VanHandel, read a poem called "The Uncle We Never Knew" on behalf of the Beers' family, saying: "From what we heard, he was a wonderful man who tried so hard to fight for our land in Vietnam. Many people came to mourn for this man. His family still talks about all the years that he grew up. That is how we know the uncle we never knew."

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Beers was one of nine siblings, six of whom attended the bridge dedication.

"Everybody that met Beers said he was the funniest and unassuming guy you have ever met," said Ed Preston, the Pennsylvania Vietnam Veterans Memorial Funds chairman.

"Every veteran has a name; more than a name, they have a story, but they just have a different job than us. But they should always be remembered and never forgotten. Which is why we do what we do."

Preston recalled Frenchie, a fellow Marine who was with Beers when he died saying: "No matter what was taking place in the chow hall or the battlefield, Beers always brought calm to the chaos".

This article originally appeared on Bucks County Courier Times: This Bucks County bridge now named for Marine from Falls killed in Vietnam