In a heartfelt tribute, the Nevada Department of Transportation (NDOT) is paying tribute to five brave officers who lost their lives while serving the community. They’ve done this by placing special signs along state highways, making sure that these heroes are never forgotten.
One of these officers, NHP Trooper Micah May, sadly passed away in July 2021 due to a vehicular assault. Now, there are signs in his honor on the I-15 near West Sahara Avenue, both in the north and southbound directions.
But Trooper May isn’t the only one being remembered. Other officers who have dedicated signs include:
1. Benjamin Michael Jenkins: A section of U.S. 93 near the U.S. 93 Alternate junction has been dedicated to Trooper Benjamin Michael Jenkins. He lost his life to a gunshot in March 2020.
2. Jack Lee Spencer, Sr.: About twenty miles east of Fernley on Interstate 80, a sign now honors Bureau of Indian Affairs Captain Jack Lee Spencer, Sr., who tragically died in a vehicle crash in September 1998.
3. Carlos J. Borland: On I-80, approximately one mile east of Lovelock, a sign pays tribute to Trooper Carlos J. Borland, who lost his life to gunfire in December 1993.
4. Creighton Travis Spencer: Another sign on I-80, roughly ten miles west of Elko, remembers Bureau of Indian Affairs Officer Creighton Travis Spencer, who passed away in a vehicle crash in March 2001.
These special signs are part of NDOT’s Honorary Highway Name program. This program ensures that sections of highway, approximately one mile long, can be named to honor first responders who lost their lives while performing their duties on the state’s road network.
In a historic move, the signs for Jack Lee Spencer, Sr. and Creighton Travis Spencer also hold a special significance. They mark the first time that a Native American officer has been honored on Nevada’s state roadway network, making this tribute even more meaningful.
These signs are more than just markers on the road; they serve as reminders of the bravery and sacrifice of these officers. They stand as a symbol of our gratitude and respect for those who risked everything to keep us safe.
