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Dayton to honor fallen hero by giving his name to ‘Ahren’s Way,’ first section of Riverfront Commons


The City of Dayton will be celebrating the completion of its first section of the Riverfront Commons Trail at a dedication and ribbon-cutting ceremony at the trailhead on 6 p.m. August 8 as Ahrens Way in honor of Private First Class Edward Henry Ahrens.

The trailhead is located at the base of O’Fallon Avenue on the Ohio Riverfront (Queen City Riverboats Parking Lot).

Private First Class Edward Henry Ahrens, born on Second Street in Dayton, was awarded the Navy Cross for extraordinary heroism and devotion while serving with Company A, First Marine Raider Battalion, during the landing assault and seizure of the Japanese enemy over the Tulagi Island, part of the British Solomon Islands, on the night of 7th-8th August, 1942.
 
His great personal valor and indomitable fighting spirit were regarded as a contribution to the noblest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
 
In recognition of his service, the U.S. Navy commissioned a ship in his honor. USS Ahrens (DE-575).
 
“On August 8th, the anniversary of Mr. Ahrens’ passing, the City of Dayton will remember him and his heroic contribution to our country. To do so on the very shores of the river Mr. Ahrens grew up on is an honor,” said Dayton Mayor Ben Baker.
 
Following the Arhens’ Way Dedication there will be a reception at the Dayton Heritage Museum, 718 Sixth Avenue, Dayton, to showcase their display about Private First Class Edward Henry Ahrens and their recently acquired model of the USS Ahrens that was hand-built by Dayton Kentucky resident Robert Pendery.
 
Riverfront Commons is an 11.5 mile walking/biking path that runs along the Ohio River from the city of Ludlow on the west to the city of Ft. Thomas on the east.


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