A bridge along South Dakota Highway 50 over Crow Creek, about 12 miles north of Chamberlain, will be dedicated today (Aug. 1, 2025) in honor of U.S. Army PFC Mark Shields.
The South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs will host the State Bridge Dedication Ceremony at 1p.m. CT at the Community Center in Fort Thompson (1021 Central Circle).
The Fallen Heroes Bridge Dedication Program is a joint effort between the South Dakota Departments of Military, Transportation and Veterans Affairs.
PFC Mark Shields was born on February 12, 1913, in South Dakota. PFC Shields answered the call to serve his country during the Korean War. Enlisting in the United States Army, he served with the 72nd Engineer Combat Battalion, attached to the 5th Infantry Regimental Combat Team. During the summer of 1950, PFC Shields and his unit were part of the United Nations forces defending the Pusan Perimeter. PFC Shields gave his life in the line of duty on August 16, 1950, in Chingong-Ni, South Korea.
State Secretary of Veterans Affairs Jeremiah Schneider says it’s an honor to recognize the brave men and women who gave their lives for our freedom. He says the bridge dedications serve as lasting symbols of gratitude and respect, connecting South Dakota communities with the legacy of those who served in our country’s military.
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