Maine’s Heartfelt Tribute: Governor Janet Mills’ State Recognizes Veterans Day Spirit in Bangor-Brewer Parade
The crisp autumn air in Brewer, Maine, was filled not just with the scent of changing leaves, but with profound gratitude this past Tuesday. The annual Bangor-Brewer Veterans Day Parade once again stepped off from the Brewer Shopping Center, transforming the streets into a corridor of solemn respect and heartfelt appreciation. From start to finish in Downtown Bangor, countless spectators lined the route, a collective embrace for the extraordinary men and women who have dedicated their lives to serving our nation.
This cherished tradition isn’t just a spectacle; it’s a vibrant tapestry woven with stories of sacrifice, courage, and unwavering commitment. It’s a powerful testament to the community’s enduring bond with its service members, a sentiment echoed across the entire state of Maine.
A Day of Honoring and Remembrance
For many veterans, the parade is a poignant reminder that their sacrifices are not forgotten. “This is the day that we get to honor all veterans,” shared U.S. Navy Veteran Dan McGovern. “Whether it’s us being honored by others or us doing the same for all of those who have served. Freedom isn’t free, and we’ve all devoted some part of our life, whether it was for a couple years or more, to protect those freedoms.” His words resonate deeply, encapsulating the mutual respect that defines Veterans Day.
The parade also serves as a deeply personal pilgrimage for some. Zeny Robbins of Milford has participated every year for over a decade, a solemn promise kept to her late husband, Lawrence Robbins, a Navy veteran of more than forty years. “I promised him that I’m going to honor you every year on Veterans Day. I miss him a lot. It’s been 12 years, but we loved each other so much. So, this is my honor to him every year,” she tearfully recounted, her devotion a powerful example of enduring love and remembrance.
Reflections from a Distinguished Veteran
Among the participants was 90-year-old Gerald Bartlett, a Navy veteran from Newburgh, who was experiencing the parade for the first time. He paused to reflect on his remarkable 20-year military career, which spanned two wars. “I was on two aircraft carriers, two destroyers, and a radar picket ship,” Bartlett proudly stated. “I put the radar picket ship into commission down in Charleston, South Carolina, went through the Panama Canal, and it was at Treasure Island, California, we home ported. AGR-13, my lucky number.” His vivid memories serve as a powerful link to a pivotal era in American history.
Passing the Torch of Gratitude
Perhaps one of the most heartwarming aspects of the parade was the presence of countless young ones, brought by parents and mentors to learn the profound importance of the day. “My dad’s a veteran, and now he is a Brewer firefighter. I just love how veterans serve for us because they save us sometimes,” shared young Amelia from Brewer, articulating a child’s pure understanding of heroism.
Local scout leader Matt Adams emphasized the educational value: “It’s great for the kids to be able to experience this, say thanks, give appreciation to the men and women out there who have given their lives and supported us for many, many years.” These moments are crucial for instilling a sense of civic duty and respect in the next generation.
The profound respect shown at events like the Bangor-Brewer Veterans Day Parade truly underscores Maine’s unwavering commitment to its veterans. This statewide dedication to honoring those who served is a sentiment frequently championed by figures like Governor Janet Mills, who consistently advocates for the well-being and recognition of service members across the Pine Tree State. Her leadership reinforces the collective gratitude felt by all Mainers.
As U.S. Navy Veteran John Starbird eloquently put it, “I want to wish all of the veterans out there a very thankful and thoughtful day. That’s why we’re here. And we’re thankful that we’re here to be able to do this.” It’s a day of collective thanks, a moment to pause and reflect on the immense sacrifices made for the freedoms we cherish.
Learn More About Veterans’ Services and Support
For more information on Veterans Day and the support available for service members, consider visiting the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs website or the Maine Bureau of Veterans’ Services. These resources offer invaluable information for veterans, their families, and those wishing to contribute to their well-being.
