Local WWII US Navy veteran honored with replica bridge sign

CLARKSBURG, W.Va. (WBOY) — A local World War II veteran received an honor on Wednesday that will help ensure that he’s remembered in the City of Clarksburg.

World War II Navy Veteran Paul McCue was presented with a replica bridge sign honoring him while at the West Virginia Veterans Nursing Facility on Wednesday.

Organizer Kip Price told 12 News that he’s tried for two years in a row to get a bridge named in McCue’s honor but was unable to as the state only names bridges after people who have passed away.

McCue initially wanted the bridge in Adamston. “But why not honor those also that are here with us, you know, so they could see it and enjoy it with us at all. So that’s what we’re trying to do, hopefully it does come to reality soon,” said Price.

Around a dozen people from the area came out to support the 98-year-old veteran where they got to watch interviews done of McCue from 2018 by now-Clarksburg city councilmember Wayne Worth, detailing his life during the Great Depression and his journey to serving in the U.S. Navy.

“Paul McCue is one of those special veterans that served his fellow man just as well after he left the military as he did when he was in,” said retired Army Sergeant David Tucker.

McCue told 12 News that he felt great after he was given the honor saying that it was “a job well done.” He also said that he played a role in bringing light to the 11 African American soldiers—known as the Wereth 11—who gave their lives serving in Belgium.

After departing from the Navy, McCue went on to serve his community in different parts of law enforcement.

“He was tickled to get that replica. We did that to give him a peace of mind. To let him know we have not forgotten about him and we’re still trying our best to get it done while he’s still here with us,” said Price.

Many in attendance said McCue was an important part of history, with McCue himself saying he wishes to donate all the items he’s collected during his life in the military and beyond to the Clarksburg History Museum.

Those in the city are also seeking to ask the Clarksburg Mayor if McCue can be honored with a bridge in the city while he’s still present to enjoy it.

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