The American Legion in Connecticut announced on May 1 that it has helped establish the Connecticut Veterans Foundation, also known as CTVets250, to highlight the historical contributions of veterans as part of the state’s plans for America’s 250th birthday.
The effort aims to address what organizers described as a lack of veteran inclusion in the official state plans for the semiquincentennial. The foundation was created by Department Commander Mike Kellett, the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) state commander, and a group of Connecticut veterans. John Ryan, a member of Seicheprey Post 2 in Bristol and part of this coalition, said all founders are Legionnaires and some are also members of the VFW. Christine Pittsley, another co-founder and member of Post 210 in New Haven, brought experience from her work at a museum.
The foundation’s largest project is the Connecticut Revolutionary War Trail. This GPS-based network features fifteen sites across museums, state parks and towns where visitors can check in digitally to learn about local military history while earning points toward rewards such as a Cranky Yankee badge and gear. “It has become a meaningful and engaging way to connect residents and visitors with Connecticut’s military heritage,” Ryan said. The coalition is also working to share stories from post-Revolutionary War veterans.
Other initiatives include connecting with the main Connecticut America 250 calendar; launching a Veterans Memory Project and Wall of Honor for public submissions; hosting programming both live and on television; and participating in Hartford Bonanza—the primary July Fourth celebration in Connecticut.
According to an American Legion National Executive Committee resolution, departments and posts nationwide are encouraged to engage with their respective state or local America250 commissions through resources available at america250.org/our-partners/state-and-territory-commissions. Community members can learn more about CTVets250 at ctvets250.org or share involvement stories on Legiontown.