Sen. Dodd’s Gold Medal Interchange Bill Approved by Legislature

SACRAMENTO – The Legislature has approved a bill from Sen. Bill Dodd, D-Napa, to designate the Interstate 80-780 interchange in Vallejo as the Congressional Gold Medal Interchange in recognition of the region’s large concentration of veterans and other great Americans who have made significant contributions to the nation in war and peace.

“With the Mare Island Naval Shipyard, Vallejo is home to thousands of veterans who have served our country,” Sen. Dodd said. “They are soldiers, sailors, flyers and marines. At the same time, there are many who played supporting roles as engineers, mathematicians and code breakers who deserve our thanks and respect. This designation is a fitting recognition of their many contributions.”

The Congressional Gold Medal is the highest expression of appreciation in the land from Congress to an individual, group or institution. Recipients include Gen. George Washington, African American “Hidden Figures” NASA mathematicians and engineers, Native American Code Talkers, Women Airforce Service Pilots of World War II, Tuskegee Airmen, Montford Point Marines, Japanese/Hispanic/ Filipino/ Chinese American Veterans of World War II, and the African American Women of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion. 

Vallejo is home to many people who served honorably in the military. According to the 2021 census, nearly 6,800 veterans live in the city. One such veteran and Congressional Gold Medal recipient is Vallejo resident Luther Hendricks, a Black Montford Point marine who fought in Iwo Jima and other Pacific islands during World War II. 

“I am hoping that the highway signs will be a constant reminder for travelers to appreciate our sheroes and heroes who sacrificed and strived to make our nation better,” said Nestor Aliga, a Vallejo veteran and advocate. “I also hope that potential visitors will realize that our beloved city of Vallejo has a rich military history with a vibrant and diverse community and many great attractions worthy of their extended visit. I am very grateful to state Sen. Bill Dodd for sponsoring and to Assembly members Tim Grayson and Lori Wilson for co-sponsoring this bill and for doggedly pushing to get it passed this year.”

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Senator Bill Dodd represents the 3rd Senate District, which includes all or portions of Napa, Solano, Yolo, Sonoma, Contra Costa, and Sacramento counties. You can learn more about the district and Senator Dodd at www.sen.ca.gov/dodd.