Courthouse a step closer to being named for Broadwater

MARTINSBURG – The U.S. Courthouse in Martinsburg is one step closer to being named for a longtime judge.

The U.S. Senate last week passed legislation that would rename the federal building and U.S. Courthouse in Martinsburg in honor of Craig Broadwater. The bill passed Feb. 17 was introduced by U.S. Sen. Jay Rockefeller. It now goes to the House of Representatives where Rep. Shelley Moore Capito has introduced a similar bill.

Broadwater was a state judge for 13 years and a federal judge for 10 years before he died in 2006. Federal legislation introduced in both houses earlier this month would rename the federal building and U.S. Courthouse in Martinsburg in his honor.

"Judge Broadwater was a respected judge, a National Guardsman who helped rebuild the government in Iraq and an admirable public servant. Most importantly, he was a great friend," Rockefeller said. "We all felt the loss of Judge Broadwater, a man who fought for justice for all West Virginians – and since his loss I have been working with his family for a fitting tribute to his admirable life and incredible service.

"I appreciate that Congresswoman Capito has agreed to join me in introducing companion legislation in the House of Representatives, and know that we'll both work to get this bill signed into law."

Capito agreed.

"Judge Broadwater humbly served his state and country as a dedicated member of the West Virginia National Guard and as a member of the Federal Judiciary," Capito said. "He was known by his colleagues and friends as a fair-minded jurist who had a passion for ensuring equal justice for all.

"I am pleased to join Senator Rockefeller in introducing legislation to ensure Judge Broadwater's legacy will be cherished and remembered."