Ceremony renames Don Young Port of Alaska to honor late Representative

ANCHORAGE, Alaska (KTUU) – Anchorage’s port was officially named the Don Young Port of Alaska on Sunday, which would have been late republican congressman Don Young’s 91st birthday and wedding anniversary with his wife Anne.

Many of Alaska’s leaders were at the unveiling ceremony at the Dena’ina Center to remember and celebrate the late congressman, Alaska’s former lone representative in the U.S. House. Young was the longest-serving Republican in Congressional history, giving more than 67 years of service to the nation and Alaska. He became a U.S. representative for Alaska in 1973.

Young’s window Anne Garland Walton, along with his two daughters Dawn and Joni, were also in attendance. Walton said the ceremony was “about as special as it gets,” with it also being Young’s birthday and their wedding anniversary.

“I think in this room today we had a whole room full of people who were family, people who cared about him and people who cared about him as well as those who are related to him,” Walton said. “I think that’s just one of the most lovely tributes, really, we could have possibly arranged for today.”

Walton said she’s forever grateful to the people of Anchorage, of Alaska and to Mayor Dave Bronson for making it special.

Mayor Bronson was a huge driver of the official renaming of the Port of Alaska. Bronson said it followed a conversation he had with Young, where the legendary congressman said he’d like his name to be considered for the renaming. Bronson said that motivated him to rename the port.

“This port, now the Don Young Port of Alaska, stands as a testament to Don’s commitment to us and to Alaska, it’s a symbol to his enduring legacy and a reminder to his dedication to us in this state,” Bronson said.

Bronson presented a plaque dedicated to Young to Anne and her family following his speech to remember the momentous day.

U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski spoke to the role Young played in Alaska’s history especially in regards to infrastructure initiatives.

“We drive on the roads that he funded,” Murkowski said. “We cross the bridges he funded. We fly in and out of airports that he funded. He had so much of an impact on this state when it comes to our ability to move and commercial activities.”

Murkowski emphasized Young was a fighter for Alaska.

“As we gather and celebrate the life of a great Alaskan, I hope as we see these ships that come in and out of our port servicing all of Alaska, I hope we think of Don’s contributions — not just on Don Young Day, but everyday,” Murkowski said.

Gov. Mike Dunleavy said Young fought tirelessly to ensure Alaska got the recognition and resources it deserved.

“His efforts resulted in the development of critical infrastructure, improved transportation networks and enhanced economic opportunities for all Alaskans,” Dunleavy said. “Renaming this port in his honor serves as a reminder of his enduring legacy and the profound impact he had on our states growth and prosperity.”

Dunleavy reflected on Young’s commitment and dedication to the state’s land and it’s people, that he said touched many lives including his own. Dunleavy said he hopes all Alaskans continue to honor Young’s memory by continuing to build on the foundation he laid down and by working together.

June 9 is recognized as Don Young Day and commemorates Alaska’s late congressman and his many contributions to Alaska.

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