Rep. Pizzuto Celebrates Induction of Middlebury Veteran into Connecticut State Veterans Hall of Fame

Middlebury, CT — 14 veterans have been selected as part of the 20th class of honorees for induction into the Connecticut Veterans Hall of Fame.

One of the veterans honored was William Stowell of Middlebury.

“I want to congratulate Mr. Stowell on his induction into the Hall of Fame. Middlebury is fortunate to benefit from his continued service to community,” said Rep. Bill Pizzuto (R-71)

William (Bill) James Stowell was raised in Middlebury and became a member of the U.S. Naval Reserve in July 1964 while he was a student at Woodbury High School. He started his career as an enlisted member of the U.S. Navy and attained the rank of chief petty officer. After twelve years of enlisted service, he was promoted to the rank of Ensign Supply Corps under the Limited Duty Officer Program.

Both Mr. Stowell’s enlisted and officer services were in logistics. During his military career, he served on five naval ships, as well as completing two tours in Vietnam, holding two major staff positions. After his first tour with the Seabees, he was assigned as an advisor to the Vietnamese Navy, which required intensive language training. He received numerous medals and awards, including the Meritorious Service medal, three Navy Commendation medals, and three Navy achievement medals. He retired in June of 1988 as a lieutenant commander after 24 years of service.

After retirement from the Navy, Mr. Stowell worked as the business manager for Regional School District 16, and later served as a consultant overseeing the building of a new elementary school.

He also served as chairman of the Middlebury Board of Finance and Planning and Zoning Commission, treasurer of the Library Board, member of the Middlebury Retirement Committee, and veteran member of the Middlebury Volunteer Fire Department. He presently serves as the municipal veterans representative for the Town of Middlebury.

The CT State Veterans Hall of Fame induction ceremony was held last night in the Gold Star Families Memorial Auditorium on the campus of the Connecticut Department of Veterans Affairs in Rocky Hill.

This year’s honorees include 14 members from the Army, Navy, Air Force, U.S. Marine Corps and U. S. Coast Guard. According to the Hall of Fame Committee, veterans who served their country honorably during their military service, and who continue to serve their communities, state and nation after discharge are eligible. The first class was inducted in 2005.