BUFFALO, N.Y. — A highway in Wyoming County will be renamed after a fallen World War II veteran.
State Route 19 in the Town of Gainesville will be renamed 'T Sgt. Walter W. Shearing Memorial Highway.'
Gainesville is Shearing's hometown.
Shearing joined the US Army in 1944 and served in the Army's 7th Army, 324th Regiment 44th Division. He fought in the Battle of the Bulge and was killed in action on April 17, 1945. He was only 27-years-old at the time of his death. He was posthumously awarded two Bronze Star medals, a Purple Heart and the Combat Infantry Badge, according to Borrello's office.
"Sergeant Shearing bravely served our nation and made the ultimate sacrifice in the fight against fascism in Europe," stated Sen. Borrello in a release. "While no tribute can fully repay the debt we owe him, we can and must honor Sgt. Shearing’s memory and the legacy he left behind. By dedicating a portion of Route 19 in the very town where he was raised—a place that shaped him into a courageous and honorable young man— we not only recognize his heroic contributions but also ensure that future generations understand the price of freedom. Sgt. Shearing, along with countless other selfless Americans, gave his life defending the liberties we hold dear, and this dedication stands as a lasting reminder of that sacrifice."
“I am proud to help honor Walter Shearing, a local hero who enlisted in the Army after Pearl Harbor despite being eligible for a farm deferment. Walter served in Patton’s 7th Army, he fought in the Battle of the Bulge in an effort to liberate Nazi occupied France and was killed in action in 1945 at age 27. Though our debt to this brave American can never be repaid, we can ensure his legacy is remembered and appreciated in his hometown,” said Assemblyman David DiPietro, who represents the 147th Assembly District.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul signed the legislation Monday that included other veteran honors across the state.
“Today, we reaffirm our commitment to the brave men and women who have served our country by ensuring their legacy lives on in communities across New York,” Governor Hochul said. “These laws not only honor our fallen heroes but also expand vital resources for veterans and their families, making sure they receive the recognition and support they deserve.”
