Connecticut Press Corps Honors Derby’s Edward J. Cotter, Jr.

CTSPJ PHOTOThe late Edward Cotter Jr., a Valley icon, was inducted into the Connecticut Journalism Hall of Fame on Thursday. 

The Valley Independent Sentinel staff nominated him for the honor.

The Connecticut Pro Chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists inducted Cotter and veteran photojournalist John Mongillo, Jr. into the Hall of Fame at an awards ceremony held at Fantasia on May 24. 

Cotter’s son, James, and his daughter, Ellen Lenart, accepted the award on behalf of the family.

Cotter had two passions in life: Firefighting and news photography, James Cotter said. 

Cotter, who died in January at the age of 91, is known in the Valley and across the state for both. 

He was inducted into the Connecticut Firefighters Hall of Fame in 2010. 

James Cotter said the induction into the Connecticut Journalism Hall of Fame completed the circle. 

Edward Cotter had been a photographer for the Evening Sentinel and the New Haven Register for more than 55 years. 

Cotter was known for his dramatic photos — especially of emergency services. His photos of the Flood of 1955 continue to define the event in the lower Naugatuck Valley. 

CTSPJ PhotoHe’s also known as one of the founders of the Derby Storm Ambulance and Rescue Corps. 

As a result of Cotter’s influence, first responders in the Valley have an expectation that what they do is public, and should be shared with the community. The Naugatuck Valley press corps, and the community as a result, have benefited from that influence. 

As Cotter was being honored by the state’s press corps, the Derby Board of Aldermen learned of another posthumous honor for the Derby native.

Cotter’s name will be added soon to the Derby Greenway Hall of Fame. Cotter’s name will be added with Patrick Brett O’Sullivan and Col. William B. Wooster.

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