In partnership with Connecticut Veterans Affairs Commissioner Ronald Welch and Major General Francis Evon of the Connecticut National Guard, Lieutenant Governor Susan Bysiewicz is seeking assistance in identifying any living World War II veterans, having served at any time from December 7, 1941 to December 31, 1946, to be honored during an upcoming ceremony.
The ceremony will take place on Monday, May 19, 2025, beginning at 11:00 a.m. at the Governor William A. O’Neill State Armory, 360 Broad Street, Hartford, CT 06105. The ceremony has been scheduled in commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, which ended in September 1945.
“It is important to thank these members of the Greatest Generation as it is because of their service and sacrifice that we live in a free and democratic state and nation today,” said Lt. Governor Bysiewicz. “We want to be sure that no one is left on the battlefield, so if any residents are aware of living World War II Veterans – whether a friend, family member, or neighbor – please reach out to our office to ensure we have the opportunity to thank them.”
“Our team at Connecticut Department of Veterans Affairs could never thank enough this “Greatest Generation” of WWII Veterans and their families for all they endured. Your incredible strength, courage, tenacity, and sacrifices on the ground, at sea, undersea and in the air set a shining example for all future military service members to follow,” said Commissioner Welch. “We thank LT Governor Bysiewicz for her steadfast charge to never forget these extraordinary Veterans. Likewise, we thank MG Evon and the Connecticut National Guard for serving as the host of this commemoratory recognition of our living CT WWII Veterans.”
“The words ‘Thank You’ are not enough to truly express the gratitude I have for the men and women who served in World War II to protect our nation’s safety, prosperity, and freedom,” said Maj. Gen. Francis Evon. “Regardless of whether they served in Europe, Asia, or stateside, their strength, courage, and resiliency are the bedrock of American ideals. As a Soldier in our Nation’s military, I understand and appreciate that we stand upon the shoulders of these warriors’ service, sacrifice, and legacy. Thank you, Lt. Gov. Bysiewicz and Commissioner Welch, for ensuring we continue to remember and honor our veterans, their families, and the fallen.”
The Lt. Governor is asking members of the public to share the names, branch of service, ages, and town of residence for any living World War II veterans in Connecticut by completing the form found HERE.