Senator Green Honors Purple Heart Veteran with Memorial Highway

WELLSTON – Sen. Grant Green, R-Wellston, recently participated in a highway dedication ceremony to rename a two-mile stretch of local roadway to honor the bravery and sacrifice of Sergeant First Class Tomas L. Avey.

Avey, a graduate of Harrah High School who enlisted in 2000, served the United States with extraordinary courage, earning numerous commendations — including a Bronze Star and a Purple Heart. He dedicated his career to protecting others and advancing the cause of freedom, leaving a legacy of service that endures to this day.

Avey died in 2015 at age 34 due to heart failure caused by prolonged complications from wounds he suffered during his multiple deployments to Afghanistan.

“The state of Oklahoma holds its veterans in the highest esteem,” said Senator Green. “Renaming this highway ensures that all who travel this road will be reminded of SFC Avey’s profound sacrifice and deep commitment to our nation. His legacy will never be forgotten.”

This memorial highway is a result of Senator Green championing legislation this year to rename a portion of State Highway 102 the SFC Tomas L Avey, Bronze Star and Purple Heart Recipient Memorial Highway. On Monday, Nov. 10th, Green participated in a dedication ceremony alongside Avey’s family and friends.

Green thanked William “Bill” Sparks, who was one of Tomas’ dear friends, for taking the initiative to start the memorial highway process and making sure the dedication came to fruition.

The SFC Tomas L Avey, Bronze Star and Purple Heart Recipient Memorial Highway begins at the intersection of East 990 Road and extends north to East Memorial Road along State Highway 102.

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For more information, contact: Sen. Grant Green at (405) 521-5547 or email Grant.Green@oksenate.gov