SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) — A bridge in southeastern South Dakota will now carry the name of an Army first lieutenant who gave his life in the line of duty in Vietnam nearly sixty years ago.

“Today, we must remember Josef’s legacy and make sure future generations will as well,” Greg Whitlock, secretary of South Dakota’s Department of Veterans Affairs, said before a gathered crowd Monday at Beresford High School for an event celebrating the dedication of a bridge in the veteran’s honor.

South Dakota bridge named for fallen Beresford veteran

Josef Thorne graduated from Beresford High School and South Dakota State University before he was killed in action at the age of 24 in Vietnam in 1965. On Veterans Day in 2024, his brother Tracy Thorne of Huron, S.D. marveled at the ceremony for Josef.

“It’s an amazing gathering with the community,” Tracy said in an interview with KELOLAND News.

“South Dakota’s Fallen Hero bridge program dedicates state bridges to South Dakotans who were killed in or classified as missing in action,” Whitlock said. “In six years, we have dedicated 53 bridges to 59 service members who have sacrificed so much.”

And now, a bridge just west of Beresford will carry Josef Thorne’s name.

“I think it’s a great honor,” Tracy said. “I think it’s a great program to remember the veterans who have sacrificed so much for our country.”

South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem’s husband Bryon Noem spoke at Monday’s ceremony as well, pointing out the symbolism and permanence of the honor.

“Bridges are strong,” South Dakota’s first gentleman said. “They are structures that are intended to reconcile and hold things together. In the same way, Lieutenant Thorne and his fellow brothers- and sisters-in-arms possess uncommon strength.”

Whitlock says Thorne was the first South Dakotan to lose their life in action during the Vietnam War.