Following the terrorist attacks on the United States on Sept. 11, 2001, Brandon Van Parys knew he had to do something to stand up for his country.

Enlisting in the Marine Corps was his way of saying America would not bow down to the Islamic extremists, known as al-Qaeda, who brought such destruction using commercial airliners.

Tragically, Van Parys was killed Feb. 5, 2007, by a rocket-propelled grenade in Anbar province, Iraq.

At the time, his unit was attempting to secure an area along the Euphrates River.

A 2005 graduate of Northwestern Lehigh High School, Van Parys was a member of the 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force out of Camp Lejeune, N.C.

To honor Van Parys’ sacrifice, state Rep. Gary Day, R-187th, sponsored legislation to name a section of Route 309 in Lynn Township in honor of the fallen Marine.

Day hosted Van Parys’ family at the state Capitol in March when his legislation passed the House. On July 10, the governor signed legislation into law naming a 3-mile section of Route 309, which stretches from the front of Northwestern Lehigh High School to Mountain Road in honor of Van Parys.

Ironically, on Nov. 14, just some 16 hours after ISIS, another Islamic extremist group, brought death, destruction and terror to a concert hall, bars, restaurants, cafes and soccer stadium in Paris, France, Day, and Van Parys’ family and friends stood in front of his high school for the unveiling of a road sign in his memory.

Also attending the ceremony were two members of the Marine Corps League, Al Harper of Honeybrook and his father.

Al Harper’s son, Ryan, a retired Marine, served with Van Parys in Iraq.

Four U.S. Marines presented the colors at the dedication ceremony, as a Boy Scout from Troop 588, Van Parys’ former Troop, stood at attention with the U.S. flag.

“It is with a heavy heart we are here today to dedicate this section of roadway,” Day said addressing the gathering. “We all remember Lance Cpl. Brandon Van Parys.

“He gave the ultimate sacrifice for his country. His ideals will live on for future generations.

“Brandon was a true patriot. I am hopeful everyone who uses Route 309 or comes to the school will remember his sacrifice.”

As he was concluding his remarks, Day struggled to hold back his tears.

“Brandon was and continues to be a true patriot, not only his days on earth but as he looks down and watches us today.”