Part of Ohio 65 to be renamed for soldier
A fallen U.S. Marine from Rossford hasn’t been forgotten by his hometown, and his legacy will soon live forever.
Today, a 1.5-mile stretch of State Route 65 through downtown will be renamed the Marine Sgt. David R. Christoff Memorial Highway in honor of the man who died more than 12 years ago in Iraq. A dedication ceremony and walk will be part of the festivities.
The event is the culmination of an effort driven by state Rep. Theresa Gavarone, R-Bowling Green, and state Sen. Randy Gardner, R-Bowling Green.
“I encourage everyone in the area to participate in this very special event, which will honor a local hero who valiantly fought and died in the line of duty,” Gavarone said. “I want to thank Sergeant Christoff ’s family, the Rossford community, and local officials for working together to plan for this unveiling and for ensuring that all those who drive on this road will remember the sacrifice and bravery displayed by Ohio’s veterans.”
Christoff was conducting a foot patrol in Al Anbar province in Iraq when a roadside bomb exploded, killing him and fellow Marine Lance Cpl. William J. Leusink, of Maurice, Iowa. The U.S. Department of Defense said they were carrying out combat operations against enemy forces.
Lifelong friend and former Marine Branden Skabla said the recognition means plenty to him.
“I think about him every day,” Skabla said. “He was my brother and my best friend. I hope people realize the sacrifice he made when they’re driving down the road. I want people to remember his name.”
The first highway sign will be unveiled at noon at the intersection of State Route 65 and Rosedale Place. Participants — including Gavarone, Gardner, and Rossford officials — will then walk to the second sign at 65 and Elm Street and hold a ceremony. A reception will follow at the Rossford Rec Center.
All aspects of the event are open to the public. Parking will be available at Rossford United Methodist Church.
“Rossford is a very patriotic city,” Mayor Neil MacKinnon said. “Historically, we’ve had very strong VFWs and American Legions. We have over 25 people working out at the 180th (Fighter Wing).
“There’s sadness that we lost one of ours, but also a great sense of gratitude and pride in a member of our community who died protecting us and serving his country. Sergeant Christoff is a hero and a legend around Rossford and he always will be.”
At the time of his death on May 22, 2006, Christoff was 25. He was the 18th soldier with ties to northwest Ohio to die in the Iraq War.
Christoff grew up in Rossford on Hannum Avenue, just a few football fields away from the section of highway to be named in his honor. He attended Shawnee High School near Springfield after moving in with his mother and stepfather.
The terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001, led Christoff to a career in the armed forces. He joined the Marines the same day as Skabla, who now serves in the Ohio Air National Guard with the 178th Wing in Springfield.
The two grew close and Christoff became the godfather of Skabla’s son, Branden Jr. He and his little sister know all about “Uncle David.”
“I think my son really enjoys knowing his godfather made the ultimate sacrifice and is a hero in many people’s eyes, and that’s how he views David,” Skabla said. “His hero gave up his life so he can continue to play sports and be the kid he is now.”