GALLATIN, Tenn. — A segment of Albert Gallatin Avenue is now named the Danny Randolph Memorial Mile in honor of Tennessee Army National Guard veteran Danny Randolph, who died in a helicopter crash on February 15, 2023.
Family, friends, and local lawmakers gathered for the dedication ceremony on Thursday, marking the memorial which spans from Highway 109 to Highway 31. Patricia Randolph, the veteran’s mother, expressed her desire for her son’s contributions to be remembered. “I want Danny’s name to go down in history that he gave his life for his country,” she stated.
Randolph, a 13-year veteran and Gallatin native, held the rank of Chief Warrant Officer 3. He lost his life when his Blackhawk helicopter crashed in Alabama. Senator Ferrell Haile, representative for Tennessee’s 18th district, emphasized the significance of Randolph’s sacrifice, stating, “Danny Randolph made the ultimate sacrifice for his country.”
Attendees wore black and red, honoring Randolph’s favorite colors. His mother initiated the memorial by approaching Gallatin’s mayor about the street naming, which was supported by local officials.
Gallatin Mayor Paige Brown acknowledged that while the memorial does not alleviate the pain of loss, it adds meaning to Randolph’s legacy. “This stretch of Albert Gallatin from Highway 109 to Highway 31 will now be known as the Danny Randolph Memorial Mile,” Haile confirmed.
Plans for an additional memorial are also under consideration, according to the mayor. Patricia Randolph noted, “His name will be forever remembered with street signs.”