Normal’s post office to be named in honor of “American hero”

Posted on December 22, 2018
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Sgt. Joshua Rodgers, an NCHS graduate, was killed in April 2017 during a firefight against ISIS in Afghanistan. (File photo)

 

By Howard Packowitz

Amid political gridlock, the White House and Congress are unified that the U.S. Post Office in Uptown Normal should be named in honor of U.S. Army Ranger Joshua Rodgers, who died almost 20 months ago while battling ISIS in Afghanistan.

Central Illinois Congressman Darin LaHood announced Saturday that President Donald Trump signed into law a bill naming the post office at 200 W. North St. in Normal after the Normal Community High School graduate. Both Houses of Congress unanimously passed the legislation.

Sgt. Rodgers, 22, was killed April 27, 2017 during an hours-long firefight on his third tour of duty as a member of the elite special operations unit.

“Sgt. Joshua Rodgers is an American hero and we will forever be indebted to him for his selfless service to our country,” said Rep. LaHood, who’s a Republican from the 18th Congressional District.

“With President Trump’s signature, Sgt. Rodgers’ patriotism and sacrifice will forever be cemented in the Normal community. While we can never fully repay Josh for his service, this small step will ensure his bravery is never forgotten,” LaHood also said.

“It’s because of men and women like Sgt. Rodgers who risk their lives in service to our country that we remain free,” said 13th District Rep. Rodney Davis, also a Republican.

“It is a privilege to be able to honor his life and service with this post office and I look forward to seeing the ‘Sgt. Josh Rodgers Post Office’ in Normal soon, said Congressman Davis.

Howard Packowitz can be reached at [email protected]

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