Newtown’s Own Inducted into CT Veterans Hall of Fame

Newtown’s State Legislative Delegation proudly announces the induction of Newtown’s William Ford Law Rodgers (Will) into the Connecticut Veterans Hall of Fame as the member of its Class of 2023. The Hall of Fame recognizes Connecticut veterans who have made significant contributions to their communities after leaving military service.

Colonel Rodgers served two tours of duty with the Marine Corps Veteran in Persian Gulf service.  He also served as an Appellate Judge on the Navy-Marine Corps Court of Criminal Appeals. At home, Will contributed many years of distinguished public service to the Newtown community, during which he served in elected and volunteer roles.

Among his military honors, Colonel Rodgers was the recipient of the Bronze Star Medal; a Meritorious Service Medal; a Global War on Terrorism Service Medal; the Military Outstanding Volunteer Medal; a Navy Achievement Medal; a Navy Commendation Medal; a Sea Service Deployment Ribbon; an Iraq Campaign Medal; the National Defense Service Medal; an Armed Forces Reserve Medal; and a Marine Corps Reserve Medal.

Stateside, he served as a Trustee of the CT Department of Veteran Affairs contributing policy development for a new hospital and, as an attorney in private practice, Attorney Rodgers has, throughout his 35+ years of practice, sought and helped veterans as clients, whether with civilian legal needs or in military/governmental matters, loke VA Loan forgiveness, Death Claims, and military justice matters.

His many years of service to community has included six-terms on Newtown Legislative Council, three of which as Chairman, and four-terms on Newtown’s Board of Selectmen; Will collaborated in the formation of a charitable foundation after Newtown’s tragedy at Sandy Hook School and, to this day, has remained on the Board, contributing legal expertise, as needed.

Thursday’s induction will be presided over by elected officials, including Representatives Mitch Bolinsky (House 106) and Marty Foncello (House 107), State Senator Tony Hwang, and leaders of the state’s veterans’ community.

In the words of Representative Mitch Bolinsky (R-106), “Will Rodgers is such a very humble, quiet man.  We’ve known each other for more than 20-years, and in that time, without being flashy, he’s always struck me as a guy with extraordinary intellect and a good heart who’s ever-ready to step up and do what’s right.  Everyone should know how special this honor is.  Only 125 Connecticut men and women veterans have been inducted into this Hall of Fame.  That’s pretty good company, Congratulations, Will!”

Senator Tony Hwang (R-28) on William Rodgers, “I am privileged to offer my warmest congratulations to William Rodgers, Colonel, Marine Corps Reserve, (Ret) and Bronze Star recipient, on his well-deserved induction into the Connecticut Veterans Hall of Fame. This recognition culminates Will’s legacy of military & community public service based on his unconditional love of country, state, and Newtown. Hall of Fame Veterans like Will succeed in making a positive difference in the lives of Connecticut residents many years after their military service. it’s also important to recognize how important Will’s family, especially his wife Moira was to his remarkable career accomplishments.”

According to Representative Marty Foncello (R-107): “Col. Rodgers has a distinguished record of service to both our country and our community. In both war and peace, he leads the way and sets the example for the rest of us. Newtown is fortunate to have an advocate like Will. Truly, a hero walks among us.”

A ceremony to bestow Hall of Fame Honors was held on 25-January-2024 at the Gold Star Families Memorial Auditorium on the Connecticut Department of Veterans Affairs campus at 287 West St., Rocky Hill, CT.  Inductees received a commemorative medallion and certificate recognizing their achievements from the state’s Department of Veterans Affairs and the Connecticut Military Department.  The first class of the Connecticut Veterans Hall of Fame was inducted in 2005. To date, 113 veterans are honored in the Connecticut Veterans Hall of Fame.

Click here to view more pictures from the ceremony.

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