HARTFORD, Conn. – The Connecticut National Guard has issued a noise advisory for the Middletown area surrounding the Connecticut State Veterans Cemetery on the afternoon of Friday, December 20, 2024. The advisory coincides with a private interment ceremony for former Governor M. Jodi Rell, which will include a ceremonial cannon salute.

Residents near the cemetery at 317 Bow Lane should anticipate the sound of 19 cannon rounds fired at five-second intervals starting at approximately 1:10 p.m. The salute is part of a military tradition honoring high-ranking civilian and military leaders. The blank ammunition rounds, louder than standard rifle volleys, are a tribute befitting Governor Rell’s role as the 87th governor of Connecticut and captain-general of Connecticut’s Organized Militia.

Governor Rell, who served from 2004 to 2011, passed away on November 20, 2024. She will be interred alongside her late husband, Louis R. Rell, a U.S. Navy veteran previously buried at the cemetery. The Connecticut National Guard, in collaboration with the Connecticut Department of Veterans Affairs, will oversee the honors.

“Governor Jodi Rell was a steadfast supporter of the Connecticut National Guard, always advocating for our service members and their families,” said Major General Fran Evon, adjutant general of the Connecticut National Guard. “Her leadership and initiatives, such as Operation E.L.F., showcased her unwavering compassion and dedication. She will always be remembered as a true friend to the Guard.”

Brigadier General (Ret.) Ron Welch, Commissioner of Connecticut Veterans Affairs, echoed the sentiment: “It is our honor to bring Governor Rell to her final resting place beside her husband. Her legacy of service and support for our military members, families, and Veterans remains deeply cherished.”

The private ceremony, held at the request of Governor Rell’s family, is not open to the public or media. Questions related to the cemetery can be directed to Lindsay Jesshop of the Connecticut Department of Veterans Affairs at lindsay.jesshop@ct.gov or 860-616-3603.

The Connecticut National Guard advises residents near the cemetery to prepare for the brief but significant noise from the cannon salute as they honor a leader whose legacy of service and dedication will long be remembered.