Serving Lucas, Ottawa, Sandusky and Wood Counties
Oregon city council members passed a resolution at its latest council meeting on Oct. 27 that designates a portion of Starr Avenue, between Lallendorf and Wynn, in honor of the Morrissey brothers, who tragically lost their lives during an explosion at the BP-Husky oil refinery on Sept. 21, 2022.
That portion of Starr will be named the “Max and Ben Morrissey Memorial Mile.”
Council member Dennis Walendzak said that Ohio State Representative Elgin Rogers Jr. reached out to him approximately six to eight months ago following a discussion with Jim Witt of the United Steelworkers.
“(He asked) if there's something we can do to memorialize these young men (who) unfortunately lost their lives,” Walendzak said. “In discussions with them, it came up that they would like to (do something) similar to what you have on the interstate, where you can memorialize a fallen soldier on the side of the road.
“We thought it was a great way to honor these two gentlemen … it’s the least that we can do for this family for the tragedy that they've had to deal with … I am so honored to be able to bring this forward as a memorial for these two fine gentlemen.”
Representative Rogers Jr. spoke at the council meeting.
“A lot of times in the work that we do, we don't know the impact that it has on folks,” he said. “And the work that you all do, you don't know the impact that you have on the community of people. Tonight, being here is a shining moment for not only just me, but the family (and) the people that helped bring this together.”
He recognized Jim Witt and the Morrissey family for their roles in the project, too.
“I know that sometimes in government, things move really slow, but thank you all for being expedient with this,” he said.
The official language from the Ohio House of Representatives was then read by Rogers Jr.
“To the family of Ben and Max Morrissey, tonight we gather to honor the memory of two extraordinary men, Ben and Max Morrissey, who tragically lost their lives in the fire at the BP-Husky refinery in Oregon, Ohio. As members of United Steelworkers Local 1346, the Morrissey brothers dedicated their lives to ensuring workplace safety and, in doing so, made the ultimate sacrifice. In recognition of their bravery, commitment to safety, and love for their families, we proudly announce the naming of the Ben and Max Morrisey Memorial Mile in memory of fallen workers. This road, which will bear their names, will stand as a permanent reminder of their selflessness, courage, and dedication to the community. Ben and Max were more than workers. They were fathers, husbands, and heroes. Their actions on that fateful day helped prevent much worse disaster and saved countless lives. While their loss leaves an irreplaceable void, their legacy will continue to inspire us all. Their families, especially their young children, will always hold their memories close. And we share in their grief and in their strength. As we gather tonight, we not only commemorate the lives of fallen workers, but also reaffirm our commitment to ensuring workplace safety and the protection of workers everywhere. The Morrissey brothers' sacrifice will always be remembered as a call to action to prevent such tragedies in the future. We extend our deepest love, gratitude, and sympathy to the Morrissey family and to all workers who risked their lives to protect others. May this road stand as a lasting tribute to the Morrissey brothers' dedication and fallen workers everywhere. May it remind us all of the ongoing fight for justice, safety, and respect for all workers.”
Rogers Jr. added one more comment before taking a seat.
“I serve on the transportation committee in the statehouse and a lot of folks think that these are just road naming bills,” he said. “But these are not just road naming bills. These things have an innumerable and immeasurable impact on the lives of others because we cannot forget, and we must always remember those folks who come before us,” he said.
Council then recognized the family of the Morrissey brothers, who were on hand. Walendzak said that the signs have been ordered and should be up soon.
