Rafael Gonzalez discovered his father’s tragic death in a construction accident on the 210 Foothill Freeway bridge, 52 years ago. To honor the memories of the six men who lost their lives in the collapse, Gonzalez and other relatives gathered at Hahamongna Watershed Park to unveil a freeway sign memorializing their sacrifice.
The accident occurred when faulty scaffolding collapsed while concrete was being poured, resulting in the deaths of six workers. The community came together to remember the victims, with Assemblymember Chris Holden sponsoring a resolution designating a memorial overpass for the victims.
Gonzalez, who had been a teenager when his father died, shared his emotional story during the ceremony, emphasizing the need to honor the sacrifice of these men. Despite facing challenges in his efforts to memorialize the workers, Gonzalez persevered, eventually gaining recognition for their bravery.
Representative Judy Chu praised Gonzalez’s dedication in ensuring that the workers’ deaths were not forgotten, highlighting the importance of workplace safety. The unveiling of a replica freeway sign served as a reminder of the sacrifices made by the workers who contribute to building infrastructure.
Overall, the ceremony was a poignant moment to remember the lives lost in the tragic accident and to emphasize the importance of honoring the contributions of workers who ensure the safety and functionality of our communities.
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