Governor Ned Lamont has announced that nominations are now open for the 2026 class of the Connecticut Veterans Hall of Fame, encouraging residents to recognize distinguished veterans who have made significant community impacts after their military service. Applications must be submitted to the Connecticut Department of Veterans Affairs by September 30, 2026, with an induction ceremony planned for the coming months.
Established in 2005, the Hall of Fame serves as the state's official tribute to former U.S. Military members from Connecticut who continue to contribute to their communities in areas such as education, public service, and volunteer activities. To date, 227 honorees have been inducted, including five Congressional Medal of Honor recipients.
"The Connecticut Veterans Hall of Fame honors veterans from our state who have continued giving back to their communities even after leaving military service, and we want to honor and recognize them for their leadership, generosity, and contributions to Connecticut," Governor Lamont said. Lt. Governor Susan Bysiewicz added that veterans "make a lasting difference in every corner of our state."
Connecticut Veterans Affairs Commissioner Ron Welch, a retired U.S. Army brigadier general, emphasized the privilege of recognizing "honorable military service and sacrifice" alongside "resolute support to the military, veterans, and their families." He urged those who know a deserving veteran to submit a nomination package.
Eligible nominees must have been born in Connecticut or resided in the state for at least five years, meet the definition of a "veteran" under Connecticut General Statutes ยง 27-103, and have received an honorable discharge. The nomination package requires a completed form, discharge documents, and a detailed narrative focusing on the veteran's post-military community service. Nomination packages can be downloaded from the Connecticut Department of Veterans Affairs website and mailed to the Office of the Commissioner of Veterans Affairs, ATTN: CT Veterans Hall of Fame, 287 West Street, Rocky Hill, CT 06067.