MASH FORK – This past weekend the Magoffin County Fiscal Court, in conjunction with the Salyersville DAV and the family, held a ceremonial road dedication honoring Lance Corporal Robert M. Cheek, who was killed in action during the Vietnam War.
At the dedication, the following resolution, which was passed in January this year by the Magoffin County Fiscal Court, was read:
Magoffin County Fiscal Court
Resolution 2025-02
WHEREAS, the Magoffin County Fiscal Court wishes to recognize the contributions and sacrifices made by Lance Corporal Robert M. Cheek to his country; and
WHEREAS, Lance Corporal Robert M. Cheek enlisted in the United States Marine Corp at an early age. After completing his training was assigned to a helicopter med-vac unit in Vietnam. Lance Corporal Cheek was on many missions bringing wounded personnel away from arms way. On many of their missions would come under gunfire and would have to fly at a low altitude. On a fierce mission in the Quang Tri Province of Vietnam, their helicopter flew into the side of a mountain killing all on board; and
WHEREAS, Lance Corporal Robert M. Cheek became Magoffin County’s fourth victim to die in the Vietnam conflict; and
WHEREAS, Lance Corporal Cheek’s heroic actions were awarded the Purple Heart and many other commendations; and
WHEREAS, Lance Corporal Robert M. Cheek did not make it home to tall to loved ones and friends about his experience of the war. He was killed in action October 25, 1968, Lance Corporal Robert M. Cheek lays in the peaceful sleeps in the hands of the Supreme Commander at the Flint Cemetery, Angola, Indiana.
NOW, THEREFORE LET IT BE RESOLVED, that KY Route 2020 in Magoffin County, Kentucky, from mile point 0.00 to mile point 0.07, be forever known as Lance Corporal Robert M. Cheek Memorial Highway.
Done this 21 day of January, 2025.
Signed:
Matthew C. Wireman, Magoffin County Judge/Executive
Darrel Howard, Magistrate District 1
Eddie Jenkins, Magistrate District 2
Samuel Bailey Jr., Magistrate District 3
Attest: Renee Arnett Shepherd, Magoffin County Clerk
