Jackson, Mich. (WKHM) — A section of highway in Jackson County could soon honor a missing Tuskegee Airman. A bill in the Michigan House would rename part of U.S. 127 near the I-94 interchange in memory of 2nd Lieutenant Roosevelt Stiger, a decorated World War II pilot who grew up in Jackson.

State Representative Kathy Schmaltz, who introduced the bill, says it’s a privilege to recognize Stiger’s courage and sacrifice. She calls the tribute a meaningful way to honor a local hero who helped break barriers.

Stiger trained through the Tuskegee program and flew with the famed 99th Fighter Squadron. In 1944, his plane crashed into the Adriatic Sea during a mission. He was never recovered.

Schmaltz says the idea came from students at Jackson College’s Heritage Center, who helped research and revive Stiger’s story.

The bill, HB-4145, has passed committee and now heads to the full House.