VFW Memorial Bridge

The East Texas Weekend Preview — A symbol of honor for local veterans, a hub for outdoor activities along the Trinity River and the site of a miraculous event that has captivated readers and moviegoers all over the world.

For years, locals and travelers alike have enjoyed the sights, sound and stories of this beloved East Texas bridge.

Originally constructed in 1941, it was one of the only ways to across the wide Trinity River during that period. Later in 2004, it was renamed to the Veterans of Foreign Wars Memorial Bridge to remember the brave souls who heroically sacrificed their lives for the freedoms of our nation.

The banks along the entry points of the bridge offer a wide variety fun on the water. During our visit there were plenty of folks launching their boats into the water and fishing from the riverbanks. We also enjoyed a nice trek on some cut-out walking trails along the river. There were also tons of soaring heron! These large birds would swoop down, wade in the water and hunt for an afternoon fishy-snack.

But by far the most fascinating aspect of this massive crossing is the account of Don Piper. In 1989, as Don was driving across the VFW Memorial Bridge he would be struck by an 18-wheeler that crossed over the center line. His car would be horrifically crushed, leaving Don unresponsive. He was pronounced dead on the scene, covered with a tarp... 90 minutes later, Don would be suddenly revived! During his deceased period he claims to have gone to heaven, experiencing supernatural joy.

Don Piper’s story would rock the community, and later the world, with his personal account in the 2004 novel, 90 Minutes in Heaven. The book would go on to become a New York Times Bestseller and lead to a movie adaption including the likes of Hayden Christensen and Kate Bosworth.

Today, you can visit the site of the wreckage that happened near the center of the bridge.

This weekend, add a visit to this historic bridge to your itinerary. Remember the sacrifice of East Texas veterans, have an absolute blast on the river and admire the wonderous story of Don Piper.

The VFW Memorial Bridge can be found at TX-19’s crossing of the Trinity River in Trinity, TX

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