OLYMPIA, WA – The Washington State Senate has unanimously approved Senate Joint Memorial 8003, requesting the designation of an overpass on Interstate 82 as the “Washington State Patrol Trooper Charles Frank Noble Jr. Memorial Overpass.” The bipartisan measure was led by Sen. Nikki Torres, R-Pasco.
The overpass is located at the Yakima Valley Highway junction near milepost 54.
Trooper Charles Frank Noble Jr., a longtime Yakima County resident, began his career with the Washington State Patrol on Nov. 4, 1957, as a driver’s license examiner in Vancouver. He became a commissioned trooper on April 21, 1958, after completing the 27th Trooper Basic Training Class, serving for 14 years.
Trooper Noble was fatally shot during a traffic stop on Highway 12 in Zillah on Feb. 5, 1972. He was 42. In addition to his service with the State Patrol, he was a U.S. Navy veteran who served during the Korean War.
“Trooper Charles Frank Noble Jr. exemplified the highest standards of bravery and dedication in his service to our community and country,” Torres said. “Designating this overpass in his honor ensures that his sacrifice and commitment to public safety are permanently remembered.”
Washington State Patrol Chief John Batiste testified in support of the memorial, emphasizing Trooper Noble’s service and sacrifice.
The measure now awaits consideration by the Washington State House of Representatives.
