Mr. Nelson and the Henrico County Board of Supervisors

We, the signers of this petition, are requesting that the name of White Oak Creek Drive be changed to Kepple Drive to honor Officer Bob Kepple.

Bob Kepple served as an active duty Marine from June, 1966 to July, 1976.  He then served in the Marine Reserves from January, 1977 to February, 1979.  He served one tour in Vietnam and was wounded on Hill 861A overlooking Khe Sanh before the siege of Khe Sanh.  Upon leaving the Marines he joined the Henrico County Police Department in September, 1976 and served honorably until his retirement on disability in July 1990.  He resided in the Varina District.

Unfortunately, on March 10, 1985, while directing traffic at a fire scene, Officer Kepple was struck by a motor vehicle.  He suffered severe brain damage and other life threatening injuries.  When transported to the Medical College of Virginia Hospital, the doctors were unable to positively state that he would survive due to the severe trauma to his brain.  Many officers lined the emergency room concerned for Officer Kepple.

Officer Kepple did survive and after many months of physical therapy he was able to achieve his dream to mark 10-41, available for service, and return to working patrol.

Unfortunately, the recovery was not sufficient to allow him to continue to work for the police department.  He was retired on disability.

Today, Officer Bob Kepple resides in Georgia with one of his daughters.  He now suffers from dementia and had to have both hips replaced as a result of his injuries that fateful night in 1985.

Officer Kepple dedicated his life to serving the citizens of this country and Henrico County.  We believe he should be honored for his sacrifice to the County by naming this roadway after him.