Harper Announces Post Office Naming Ceremony for Fallen Soldier

U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R–Miss.) will host a dedication ceremony on August 13, 2010 to name the Hickory, Mississippi Post Office in honor of Sergeant Matthew L. Ingram, a Purple Heart recipient who died while serving in Afghanistan.

“Naming this facility will present a constant reminder of the sacrifices Sgt. Ingram and other Mississippians have made through their service to the United States,” said Congressman Gregg Harper. “Matthew’s love for his country and able leadership took him from Hickory, Mississippi to Afghanistan and his courage and ultimate sacrifice will not be forgotten.”

H.R. 4139, introduced by Harper, designates the United States Postal Service facility in Hickory as the “Sergeant Matthew L. Ingram Post Office” after the 25-year-old Newton County native. Ingram died on August 21, 2009 from wounds suffered when an improvised explosive device detonated near his vehicle during combat in Afghanistan. The blast occurred while his unit was under small arms fire from enemy forces according to the Department of Defense.

The public is invited to celebrate Ingram’s life and service to America.

WHO: U.S. Representative Gregg Harper (R–Miss.)

WHAT: Sgt. Matthew L. Ingram Post Office Naming Ceremony

WHEN: Friday, August 13
9:00 – 10:00 a.m.

WHERE: Hickory Post Office
7464 Highway 603
Hickory, Mississippi 39332