Senator Tony Hwang Highlights Alex J. Plitsas Ahead of Connecticut Veterans Hall of Fame Induction

FAIRFIELD, CT—State Senator Tony Hwang (R–Fairfield) hosted a press conference recognizing Fairfield resident Alex J. Plitsas, who will be formally inducted into the Connecticut Veterans Hall of Fame on January 22, 2026 as a member of its 21st class.

The event highlighted Plitsas’ selection as one of the youngest veterans inducted into the Hall of Fame, honoring not only his distinguished military service, but his continued leadership and advocacy for veterans following his return to civilian life.

“Alex Plitsas represents the very best of service before and after the uniform,” said Senator Hwang. “From combat leadership overseas to his tireless work here at home, Alex has consistently stepped forward to serve others. I was proud to nominate and sponsor him and to recognize his unwavering commitment to supporting fellow veterans, especially those from the Gulf War and Afghanistan/Iraq eras who face the challenges of PTSD, reintegration, and life after service.”

“This is a humbling honor. Most of the other inductees are quite accomplished and significantly older than I am in terms of life experiences. They participated in conflicts where they did come home and weren’t treated as well as the rest of us were. In our era, the global war on terrorism, we all volunteered, and have been taken well care of with benefits. That is not the same experience that some of the other folks that are being inducted were welcomed with,” said Alex Plitsas. “I feel quite fortunate to have the support from our community leaders, as you can see here our First Selectman and State Senator, so I can’t be more thankful for this. I am looking forward to trying to live up to that, and continuing to serve in whatever capacity is most helpful to our community.”

Plitsas is a U.S. Army combat veteran and Bronze Star Medal recipient who led missions during the Iraq War and later served in Afghanistan as a defense civilian intelligence officer. He concluded his federal service at the Pentagon, overseeing sensitive operations and policy within the Office of the Secretary of Defense.

Since leaving government service, Plitsas has continued to serve at the local, national, and global levels. His work includes leading humanitarian and evacuation efforts assisting more than 10,000 people, serving on the Connecticut Task Force for Afghan Refugee Resettlement, mentoring younger veterans, and advocating for mental health awareness. He also remains active in national security leadership as a CNN analyst and Senior Fellow at the Atlantic Council.

Tomorrow’s induction ceremony will formally recognize Plitsas and 13 other veterans selected for their post-service contributions to community leadership, public service, and veteran advocacy.

“Alex’s leadership ensures that no veteran is left behind once they come home, that service does not end when the uniform comes off.” Senator Hwang said. “His induction into the Connecticut Veterans Hall of Fame is well deserved, and our community is proud to call him one of our own.”