Committee backs bill to name Trimble-area road for Marshall Teddy Ray Holcomb

The House Transportation Committee on June 17 voted unanimously to report House Bill 325 out of committee and recommend its passage to designate a roadway in the Trimble area of Athens County as the Marshall Teddy Ray Holcomb Memorial Highway.

Representatives Ritter and Holmes sponsored the bill at the family's request. They told the committee that on Oct. 27, 1976, Marshall Holcomb responded to a violent incident in Trimble Village Park to assist a fellow officer. The sponsors said Holcomb was gravely wounded when a suspect rammed his vehicle; he later died en route to the hospital.

Firefighter-paramedic Douglas Brown, who testified in person, described the long-term impact of Holcomb's actions on his family. Brown said his brother and his son exist because of Holcomb's sacrifice and that he has dedicated his life to public safety in part because of the example set by Holcomb. "I owe Marshall Holcomb my life," Brown said.

After testimony and brief committee discussion, Vice Chair Daniels moved that the bill be favorably reported. The clerk called the roll and the committee returned a unanimous vote, 12-0, to report the bill out of committee and recommend favorable passage. Members were reminded to sign the report before the clerk's office deadline.

The sponsors said the measure is a ceremonial highway designation requested by the family and does not include funding or program requirements. The committee did not identify implementation costs.