By Howard Packowitz

BLOOMINGTON – The mother of the late U.S. Army Sgt. Josh Rodgers is thankful Bloomington-Normal has lifted up Rodgers’ family and friends as they grieve, but also as they celebrate his life.

Vonda Rodgers said other communities have not been as supportive of Gold Star families who’ve lost loved ones in battle.

“We are blessed beyond measure that our community recognizes the valor that happened that night, recognized that Josh didn’t have to be there, and that he wasn’t there for himself. He was there for us, so we have an awesome community,” she said.

Mrs. Rodgers said she’s living the life Josh would want her to live, by continuing his fight for freedom.

“Josh wouldn’t want me sitting around, hiding in the dark, and pretending it didn’t happen. He would want me to continue his fight for freedom. I’m not going to Afghanistan, but I will fight for freedom here,” she added.

Josh Rodgers died two years ago from wounds he suffered in a battle against ISIS in Afghanistan. Last week, the U.S. Post Office in Normal was named in Rodgers’ honor, as was a section of Airport Road on Bloomington’s northeast side.

State Representative Dan Brady, who’s been a family friend for years, said Rodgers’ loved ones have turned a terrible tragedy into a positive by keeping the soldier’s name alive.

“They have caused awareness. They have gone out on many causes in the name of Sgt. Josh Rodgers,” said Brady.

“They have tried to do so many good things out of this terrible situation and take the positives, making sure Josh is remembered, making sure that good could come out of this, and making sure that others can be helped in the name of Sgt. Josh Rodgers,” Brady also said.

Howard Packowitz can be reached at [email protected]