A road dedication ceremony was held on Saturday, July 13 to honor Arthur Lykins, who was killed in action during World War II, with a portion of Cow Creek named after the war hero.
Magoffin County Fiscal Court
Resolution No. 2024-02
HONORING ARTHUR LYKINS
WHEREAS, the Magoffin County Fiscal Court wishes to recognize the contributions and sacrifices made by Private Arthur Lykins to his country; and
WHEREAS, Arthur Lykins was born May 25, 1924, in Stella, Kentucky; and
WHEREAS, Arthur Lykins enlisted in the United States Army on August 23, 1943, not long after completing his training in Alabama and Baltimore, Maryland. Private Lykins landed in North Africa with the 5th Army on February 15, 1944, an took part in Operation Torch. The 5th Army and Allied Forces established a strong hole in the first step to victory in Europe. After that invasion, the 5th Army moved on to the beaches of Italy. Private Lykins and his unit swarmed the beaches at Anizo Beach, Italy. The 5th Forces was fully on the defenses against a superior Germany Army. Even though the 5th Army and Allied Forces were outmanned, manned, were successful in establishing a foothold and were able to move on to Rome. Through the fierce fighting and heroic actions, Private Arthur Lykins was killed in action March 28, 1944.
WHEREAS, Private Lykins heroic actions was awarded the Purple Heart and many other commendations.
WHEREAS, Private Arthur Lykins did not make it home to talk to loved ones and friends about his experiences of the war. He was killed in action March 28, 1944. The American Legion did the honors for Private Lykins, and he now lays in peaceful sleep in the hands of the Supreme Commander at Harold Lykins Cemetery located on Cherry Orchard Branch Road.
NOW, THEREFORE, IT IS HEREBY RESOLVED, that Cow Creek Road (CR-1257), from mile point 0.35 to mile point 0.97, be forever known as Private Arthur Lykins Memorial Road.
Done this 19th day of March, 2024.
Signed:
Matthew C. Wireman, Magoffin County Judge/Executive
Darrel Ray Howard, Magistrate District 1
Eddie Jenkins, Magistrate District 2
Samuel P. Bailey, Jr., Magistrate District 3
Attest: Renee Arnett Shepherd, County Clerk
