[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 141 (Monday, September 19, 2016)]
[Senate]
[Pages S5880-S5881]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      REMEMBERING RODGER McCONNELL

 Mr. TESTER. Mr. President, on July 21, 2016, shortly before 
his 72nd birthday, the United States lost a great man, an outstanding 
soldier, and an unparalleled advocate for his fellow veterans--and I 
lost a great friend. Rodger McConnell's legacy will be forever 
remembered as one of perseverance, passion, a humbling work ethic, and 
an enduring love of Starbucks coffee.
  Born in August 1944, Rodger graduated high school in 1962 and found 
employment with a local gas company for several years.
  Answering the call of duty, Rodger enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1966. 
He saw combat in Vietnam as a cavalry troop forward observer for 
mortars and artillery with the 9th Infantry Division and the 11th 
Armored Cavalry Regiment before his honorable discharge a year later.
  In his postwar years, Rodger overcame several personal hardships, 
including homelessness and posttraumatic stress disorder, but he 
remained undaunted and undefeated. It was these struggles that created 
an empathetic man, who became a tireless and fearless advocate for 
other struggling veterans.
  Eventually receiving a liberal arts degree from Carroll College and a 
master's degree in K-12 education from Montana State University-
Northern, Rodger spent several years as an educator before he retired 
in 2003 and launched into his unwavering service for veterans in 
Cascade County.
  Working with State District Judge Greg Pinski, Rodger helped create a 
veterans court to help veterans navigate the justice system and get the 
help and treatment they need to get back on their feet. Rodger also 
played a pivotal role in constructing the Montana Veterans Memorial, 
which serves as a landmark in Great Falls to honor those who have 
served.
  Most notably, Rodger spearheaded the ``Stand Down'' event in Great 
Falls, providing veterans with clothing and access to job training and 
health services. Through this important event, Rodger made a difference 
in the lives of hundreds of veterans.
  Rodger was also an extremely active volunteer, contributing to the 
Great Falls community by registering voters, hosting a radio show on a 
local Great Falls station, and volunteering with the local Optimist 
Club.
  In Rodger's eyes, the community was his family, and he was theirs.
  Let us now take a moment to recognize the exceptional life of Rodger 
McConnell and the legacy he left behind. It is a legacy I hope each of 
us can aspire towards.

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