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HJR 1494

Memorials, Recognition - Historical marker honoring WWII Veteran Russell LeRoy Pickett -

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Michele Reneau

The bill authorizes and commemorates placing a Tennessee state historical marker at Veterans Park, Soddy-Daisy, for World War II veteran Russell LeRoy Pickett.

Signed by Governor.
#memorials #recognition
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Bill Summary · HJR 1494

Summary: House Joint Resolution 1494 (HJR 1494) – Tennessee 114th General Assembly

Purpose

  • To honor the memory of World War II veteran Russell LeRoy Pickett by authorizing the dedication of a Tennessee State historical marker in his honor.
  • The resolution expresses appreciation for Pickett’s service and recognizes the importance of commemorating Tennesseans who served in the armed forces.

Key Provisions

  • Declares that Russell LeRoy Pickett, a Daisy resident and United States Army veteran, who participated as part of the D-Day landings on Omaha Beach (June 6, 1944), be memorialized with a state historical marker.
  • Specifies that the dedication of the historical marker is to take place at Veterans Park in Soddy-Daisy, Tennessee.
  • Date associated with the dedication: May 2, 2026 (as part of the resolution’s factual recital about the dedication).
  • The resolution requests that an appropriate copy be prepared for presentation, with a clause regarding formatting for official copies (the text following the State seal should appear without House or Senate designation on such copies).
  • The resolution is a joint resolution (HJR) approved by both the Tennessee House of Representatives and Senate (the Senate concurring).

Who/What is Affected

  • Russell LeRoy Pickett (World War II veteran) is the person specifically honored.
  • The Tennessee historical marker program and the site at Veterans Park, Soddy-Daisy, Tennessee, are affected by the dedication.
  • The community of Soddy-Daisy and local veterans’ communities are indirectly impacted through public recognition and historical commemoration.

Procedural and Timeline Details

  • Introduction and filing occurred on April 16, 2026.
  • The bill was placed on the House consent calendar for April 16, 2026, indicating an expedited or non-controversial treatment.
  • The resolution notes a planned dedication date of May 2, 2026.
  • As a memorial resolution, the primary effect is symbolic and ceremonial, not creating new law or fiscal obligations.

Additional Context

  • The text emphasizes Tennessee’s tradition of honoring veterans and preserving historical memory.
  • The resolution is sponsored (and co-sponsored) by members of the General Assembly, with Michele Reneau acting as a co-sponsor.

Practical Implications

  • If enacted and signed, local authorities and the Tennessee Historical Commission would coordinate the erection and dedication of a state historical marker at the designated site.
  • The marker would serve educational and commemorative purposes, highlighting Russell Pickett’s WWII service and role in the D-Day invasion.
  • Public recognition may enhance awareness of local WWII veterans and contribute to community heritage efforts.

Note: The document is a commemorative measure and does not impose new duties or fiscal requirements on state government beyond typical ceremonial actions associated with marker dedications.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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