Bridge on Highway 99 Named in Honor of Late 1st Sgt. James Coy Anderson

On Saturday, June 14, 2025, the Waynesboro American Legion Post 130 hosted a bridge naming ceremony in honor of late 1st Sergeant James Coy Anderson. Sgt. Anderson was a former Commander of the Waynesboro American Legion Post, which has also been named in his honor. He was a true patriot, and a friend to many.

The ceremony was originally set to take place at the bridge itself on Highway 99 next to Wayne Farmers Co-Op, but was moved inside to the Legion Hall due to rain. “Dad loved to pack that place full, and that’s exactly what we did,” said Coy’s daughter, Mary Lauren Garner. Mary Lauren also pointed out how fitting is the location of this particular bridge, just across the street from where Coy was raised.

“It is fitting that a bridge is being named in his honor,” said a leader at the ceremony. “A bridge connects communities, just as Sgt. Anderson connected people through his leadership, his loyalty, and his love for those around him. A bridge provides strength and support – much like the strength and support he gave his fellow soldiers, to his family, and to all who knew him.”

After the ceremony at the Legion Hall, family and friends went to the bridge for the reading of the Bridge Naming Proclamation by Wayne County Executive Jim Mangubat. Family members removed the cloth draping the bridge sign, and God Bless America was played by WCHS Band Director Maria Pulley. The Collinwood American Legion Honor Guard gave a 21-Gun Salute. Everyone then returned to the Hall for refreshments, which were enjoyed after Ms. Pulley played Taps on her trumpet.

Thank you, Sgt. Anderson, for your service to your country, to your fellow Wayne Countians, and to your brothers in arms.