Roadway Named for Fallen Hero

Illinois Route 121 in Cumberland County between CR 1450 East and CR 1600 East will be known as the "Specialist Michael Flood Memorial Highway.”

State Sen. Dale Righter (R-Mattoon) sponsored the legislation (HJR 114). It was adopted by a unanimous vote of the Senate May 28.

Michael Flood was born in Effingham and lived on the family farm in rural Toledo. He joined the U.S. Army in 1968 and was assigned to a Battalion Company with the 101st Airborne as medic. A year later, he was killed in action while assisting wounded soldiers. He was posthumously awarded both the Silver Star and the Bronze Star. 

“Specialist Flood is an American hero, who not only served our country with bravery, but served his peers on the battlefield with utmost selflessness,” Righter said. “His sacrifice to our country must never be forgotten. This tribute is the least we can do to honor him and his roots in Cumberland County.”

The resolution was first introduced in the House by State Rep. Reggie Phillips (R-Charleston). It was adopted by a unanimous vote of that chamber May 10.