House Republican Press Release

May 29, 2008

Press Office: 860-240-8700

LOCAL VETERANS HONORED IN TRUMBULL CEREMONY

HARTFORD – Nearly 200 Trumbull Veterans were honored in a ceremony organized by State Rep. T.R. Rowe, R-Trumbull, on Wednesday, May 28. During the event held at Trumbull High School, Veterans were presented the new Connecticut War Times Service Medal. The medal was established by 2005 legislation supported by Rep. Rowe.

To be eligible for the honor, veterans must have served in time of war, as defined in state statutes, and who either was a resident of Connecticut at the time he or she was called to active duty for such service, or is domiciled in this state on the date of such award.

Prior to the ceremony, Rep. Rowe mailed letters throughout Trumbull informing Veterans of the medal and details of how to apply for the honor.  Medals will also be mailed to Veterans who submitted an approved application to the CT Department of Veterans Affairs, but were unable to attend the recent event.

According to state Veterans Affairs Commissioner Linda Schwartz, more than 15,000 medals have been distributed to date at more than 30 ceremonies held across the state. The medal features seals from all five military branches. Those receiving medals at the Trumbull ceremony included a number of World War II Veterans, but also included Korean and Vietnam Veterans as well.

"I was humbled to have the opportunity to organize this Medal ceremony for these war time veterans,” said Rep. Rowe.  “It was truly one of the most rewarding moments of my 10 years in office.  These great American heroes were on the front lines during the most perilous times of the past century, and this war time medal is a small but important way to recognize and honor them."

Rep. Rowe also donated a large American flag to the Town of Trumbull during the event. Town officials will employ the flag after determining which current flag most needs replacing.