The Connecticut National Guard has issued a noise advisory for Friday, December 20, for Middletown, due to the private interment ceremony of former Gov. M. Jodi Rell.
The noise advisory is for residents around the Connecticut State Veterans Cemetery at 317 Bow Lane in Middletown between 1 to 2 p.m., according to a statement.
The Connecticut National Guard will fire a ceremonial cannon salute, a traditional military protocol for honoring high-ranking military and civilian leaders, according to a statement. 19 rounds will be fired at five-second intervals, with the cannon salute expected to begin at around 1:10 p.m.
“The cannon salute is significantly louder than the rifle volleys that are customarily fired at the cemetery during the interment of veterans,” according to the Connecticut National Guard. “Anyone within the vicinity of the Connecticut State Veterans Cemetery should expect and be aware of the noise produced by the cannon salute, prepare themselves accordingly, and not be alarmed.”
Former Governor M. Jodi Rell had passed away unexpectedly on Nov. 20 at the age of 78. She recently laid in state Dec. 3, where nearly 1,000 residents came to see her during an open house.
Rell had served as the 87th governor of Connecticut, as well as the captain-general of Connecticut’s Organized Militia, which includes the Connecticut National Guard, from July 1, 2004 through January 5, 2011, according to a statement. She will be buried alongside her husband, Louis R. Rell, a veteran of the U.S. Navy.
“Governor Jodi Rell was a steadfast supporter of the Connecticut National Guard, always advocating for our service members and their families,” Major General Fran Evon, adjutant general and Commander of the Connecticut National Guard, said. “Her leadership and programs, like Operation E.L.F., reflected her deep compassion and commitment to those who serve. It was a privilege to work alongside her and witness her unwavering dedication firsthand. She will forever be remembered as a true friend to the Guard and an enduring example of servant leadership.”
“It is our honor to bring Governor Rell to her final resting place at the Connecticut Veterans Cemetery beside her late husband, Louis,” Connecticut Veterans Affairs Commissioner Brigadier General (Ret.) Ron Welch said. “Governor Rell was a steadfast supporter of our military members, their families, and our Veterans. It is especially poignant that our Connecticut National Guard will render honors to her as Captain-General.”
The ceremony will be private and is not open to the public, according to a statement.
