Senate committee advances resolution honoring Paul J. Cochran and his Philomath veterans memorial park

The Senate committee on Holders voted to advance House Concurrent Resolution 16 A, which recognizes Specialist 4 Paul Jeffrey Cochran (1947–1968) for his military service and honors a veterans memorial park in Philomath that was created on land donated by his family.

Senator **** Anderson introduced the measure during the March 19 committee meeting and described Cochran's service in the 101st Airborne Division and his posthumous recognitions, including the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart. Anderson noted that Cochran's family donated the family home and land to the city of Philomath to establish a veterans memorial park; the memorial park opened on Nov. 9, 2024, following volunteer efforts from ROTC, scout troops, local businesses and veterans.

Mayor Christopher McMoran of Philomath described the park's dual design, with one half an ADA-accessible playground and the other half a veterans memorial. “We have kids there almost every single day playing, enjoying the playground and then they make their way over to the Memorial and it sparks conversations,” McMoran said, praising the project as a tool for passing memory to the next generation. He also said the city plans to pursue a Memorial Highway sign on Highway 20 to further commemorate Cochran.

In a committee work session the resolution was moved “to the floor with a b adopted recommendation.” The committee took a roll call: Senator Golden — aye; Senator Mayhew — aye; Senator Patrick — aye; Vice Chair Bonham — aye; Chair Johnson — aye. The motion passed. Senator Anderson agreed to carry the resolution to the floor on behalf of the committee.

The measure was advanced from committee without noted opposition during the recorded roll call.