Governor LePage and First Lady Attend Wreath Laying Ceremony in Arlington National Cemetery

Governor and First Lady Lay Wreaths to Remember, Honor and Teach

December 12, 2015
For Immediate Release: Saturday, December 12, 2015
Contact: Adrienne Bennett, Press Secretary, 207-592-3718
Wreaths Across America tribute draws thousands of volunteers to Arlington National Cemetery
ARLINGTON, VA – Today, joining more than 30,000 volunteers, Governor Paul R. LePage and First Lady Ann M. LePage participated in the annual Wreaths Across America remembrance ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia. Paying tribute to the men and women who served our nation with dignity and honor, more than 230,000 remembrance wreaths were placed on their graves.
Since 1992, Morrill and Karen Worcester, founders of Worcester Wreath Company in Harrington, Maine have organized a group of volunteers to place wreaths in Arlington, Virginia.
The laying of the wreaths has become an annual tradition for the Governor and First Lady. For the past four years, First Lady LePage has traveled with the Wreaths Across America convoy – referred to as “The Arlington Project” – from Maine to Arlington National Cemetery, which began on Sunday, December 6 this year.
 “Shortly after Paul took office, I adopted the Wreaths Across America mission statement as my driving force - to remember the fallen, honor those who serve and their families, and teach our children the value of freedom,” Mrs. LePage said. “The placing of the wreaths in Arlington, and really the whole trip, is such a powerful experience. I can’t thank Wreaths Across America enough for all they do to honor our veterans.”
For many years The Arlington Project had been the quiet mission of Morrill Worcester and his family. In 2006, internet stories fueled attention for his annual quest, and Worcester was contacted by the Patriot Guard Riders who generously offered their help with the project. Since then the Patriot Guard Riders have escorted the wreath trucks down the East Coast and taking several days to make the trip.
The week-long trip allows stops at schools, monuments, veterans’ homes and communities and gives the group an opportunity to promote their mission: Remember, Honor and Teach. This “parade” of truckers, supporters and well-wishers has become an annual event and teaching opportunity for Wreaths Across America and a valued part of the Arlington Project.
“The First Lady and I would like to say thank you to all of the professional drivers and the trucking companies that support this mission,” said Governor LePage.  “This trip helps to show our nation what it means to be from Maine. This Maine-led commemorative convoy, now known as the world’s largest veteran’s parade, makes Ann and me proud to call Maine home.”
The placing of a wreath also occurred at the mast of the U.S.S. Maine with various members of Maine law enforcement. The mast was removed from the ship in 1905 shortly before the ship was taken out to sea and sunk with military honors. The mast was then installed above a memorial in Arlington National Cemetery in honor of those who lost their lives when the ship sank in Havana, Cuba, Harbor in 1898. This sinking was the event that started the Spanish-American War.

President Barack Obama Issues Proclamation For Veteran's Day.

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

A PROCLAMATION 

The United States military is the strongest, most capable fighting force the world has ever known.  The brave men and women of our Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard demonstrate a resolute spirit and unmatched selflessness, and their service reminds us there are few things more American than giving of ourselves to make a difference in the lives of others.  On Veterans Day, we reflect on the immeasurable burdens borne by so few in the name of so many, and we rededicate ourselves to supporting those who have worn America's uniform and the families who stand alongside them. 

Our true strength as a Nation is measured by how we take care of our veterans when they return home, and my Administration is committed to ensuring our heroes and their loved ones have every chance to share in the promise they risked their lives to defend.  We have made it easier for veterans to convert their military skills to the civilian workforce, enabled more veterans and their family members to attain Federal education benefits, and expanded access to timely, quality health care for all veterans.  Just as every veteran deserves the support and benefits they have earned, those who have given everything to defend our homeland deserve a place of their own to call home.  To uphold this ideal, First Lady Michelle Obama and Dr. Jill Biden's Joining Forces initiative has forged partnerships with local leaders across America to uphold the dignity of every veteran and work to end veterans' homelessness.  No one who fights for our country should have to fight for the care they deserve.  Earlier this year, I was proud to sign the Clay Hunt Suicide Prevention for American Veterans Act, which fills critical gaps in mental health care by raising awareness and taking steps to improve access to care for those suffering from the invisible wounds of war.

Our veterans left everything they knew and loved and served with exemplary dedication and courage so we could all know a safer America and a more just world.  They have been tested in ways the rest of us may never fully understand, and it is our duty to fulfill our sacred obligation to our veterans and their families.  On Veterans Day, and every day, let us show them the extraordinary gratitude they so rightly deserve, and let us recommit to pledging our full support for them in all they do.

With respect for, and in recognition of, the contributions our service members have made to the cause of peace and freedom around the world, the Congress has provided (5 U.S.C. 6103(a)) that November 11 of each year shall be set aside as a legal public holiday to honor our Nation's veterans.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim November 11, 2015, as Veterans Day.  I encourage all Americans to recognize the valor and sacrifice of our veterans through appropriate public ceremonies and private prayers.  I call upon Federal, State, and local officials to display the flag of the United States and to participate in patriotic activities in their communities.  I call on all Americans, including civic and fraternal organizations, places of worship, schools, and communities to support this day with commemorative expressions and programs.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this fifth day of November, in the year of our Lord two thousand fifteen, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and fortieth. 

 

BARACK OBAMA

 

 

Veterans Occupational Licensing Assistance Event Scheduled for Tuesday, Nov. 10, in Gardiner, Maine

 

 

Tuesday, November 10, 2015, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Dept. of Professional and Financial RegulationAndroscoggin Room, 76 Northern Avenue, Gardiner

Information or directions can be obtained by calling 207-624-8605.   

In advance of Veterans Day, Governor Paul R. LePage and Commissioner Anne Head are highlighting an ongoing initiative at the Department of Professional and Financial Regulation (DPFR) to make occupational licensing in several professions quicker and easier for veterans with relevant military training and experience.

Governor LePage signed Public Law Chapter 603 in 2012 to ensure that veterans are given full credit for applicable military training and experience when they apply for an occupational license from the Department’s Office of Professional and Occupational Regulation. 

These recent new laws provide the Department with greater flexibility in evaluating and crediting military experience toward license and continuing education requirements.  It should also assist veterans and spouses by permitting them to acquire a license by endorsement if they hold a comparable license in another state for the remainder of the term of that license or until a license is obtained in Maine.  

Additionally, the Department’s homepage (www.maine.gov/pfr) features information to assist veterans in applying their military training and experience toward occupational licensing requirements.  Details about licensing can also be obtained by calling Catherine Carroll at 207-624-8605.  Veterans are encouraged to contact the Department before applying for licensure.  

Veterans Legacy Project Preserves Maine Heroes' Legacies

 

 

 

11/02/2015 10:55 AM EST

   Governor Paul R. LePage and First Lady Ann M. LePage Tuesday will join Bureau of Veterans Services director Adria Horn, veterans and their families to announce the Maine Veterans Legacy Project, a program helping to preserve the living histories of veterans.

The Veterans Legacy Project provides an opportunity for all generations of Maine families to connect with our military heroes, and enables citizens to actively volunteer to protect American history.

The Bureau of Veterans Services created the Maine Veterans Legacy Project with the mission of preserving Maine history by collecting first-person accounts of those who defended the United States during wartime. The Bureau of Veterans Services collaborated with a Maine media partner to film and produce the interviews and the State of Maine Archives will file the interviews, which will be made available to the public for view.

The Office of the Governor and the Bureau of Veterans' Services invite members of the public and the media to learn more about the project on Tuesday, November 3 at 10:00 a.m. in the Hall of Flags.

WHEN: Tuesday, November 3, 2015

WHERE: Hall of Flags, State Capitol Building, Augusta

Maine Governor LePage Highlights Initiative to make Occupational Licensing Easier and Faster for Returning Military Veterans.

Governor and Commissioner Highlight Initiative to Make Occupational Licensing Easier and Faster for Veterans--Assistance Available at November 10th Veterans Licensing Event

10/30/2015 01:50 PM EDT

In advance of Veterans Day, Governor Paul R. LePage and Commissioner Anne Head are highlighting an ongoing initiative at the Department of Professional and Financial Regulation (DPFR) to make occupational licensing in several professions quicker and easier for veterans with relevant military training and experience.

Governor LePage signed Public Law Chapter 603 in 2012 to ensure that veterans are given full credit for applicable military training and experience when they apply for an occupational license from the Department's Office of Professional and Occupational Regulation. In 2013, the Governor signed Public Law Chapter 311, which builds on the 2012 measure.

"The people of Maine are tremendously grateful to those who have served," Governor LePage said. "We have a responsibility to recognize their skills, and to assist them in obtaining the credentials needed for good jobs. Veterans have much to offer businesses and organizations throughout Maine, and our economy needs their contributions."

These recent new laws provide the Department with greater flexibility in evaluating and crediting military experience toward license and continuing education requirements. It should also assist veterans and spouses by permitting them to acquire a license by endorsement if they hold a comparable license in another state for the remainder of the term of that license or until a license is obtained in Maine.

In addition to more flexibility, the laws signed in 2012 and 2013 have led to a concerted outreach effort by the Department. Staff has been participating in job fairs for veterans and attending meetings of organizations that serve military members, veterans and their families.

The next event will be held November 10, 2015 from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. in the Androscoggin Room at the Department of Professional and Financial Regulation. The Department is located in Gardiner at 76 Northern Avenue. Information or directions can be obtained by calling 207-624-8605.

Additionally, the Department's homepage (www.maine.gov/pfr) features information to assist veterans in applying their military training and experience toward occupational licensing requirements. Details about licensing can also be obtained by calling Catherine Carroll at 207-624-8605.

Veterans are encouraged to contact the Department before applying for licensure. Military documentation that may be needed includes:

Copy of a DD Form 214, Report of Discharge; and

Copy of DD Form 2586, Verification of Military Experience and Training (VMET).

"The Department remains fully committed to evaluating and crediting military experience whenever possible and appropriate," Commissioner Head said. "Veterans are encouraged to attend the November 10th event or to contact the Department anytime to learn more about how we can assist them."

Maine Citizens encouraged to "Vote in Honor of a Veteran" on November 3rd.

 

 

 

10/21/2015 11:32 AM EDT

AUGUSTA - As voters celebrate democracy by casting their ballots at the polls this November, Secretary of State Matthew Dunlap is encouraging them to remember the men and women of the armed services who have protected that right since the birth of our nation.

This election season, the Department of the Secretary of State will once again offer the "Vote in Honor of a Veteran" program link at http://maine.gov/sos/cec/elec/voter-info/veteran/index.html , which was first initiated by the late Dan A. Gwadosky, 46th Secretary of State, in 2000. The program offers a way for voters to remember the brave soldiers, sailors and airmen whose sacrifices helped ensure that all Americans can exercise the right to vote.

Voters can participate in two ways:

Order a button. A signature part of the Vote in Honor of a Veteran program includes a free button that citizens can order at http://maine.gov/sos/cec/elec/voter-info/veteran/order.html from the Office of the Secretary of State, which can be personalized with the name of the veteran they wish to honor. Maine voters can order a button on the Secretary of State website or by calling 626-8400. Share a tribute. When first initiated in 2000, the Vote in Honor of a Veteran program received such an overwhelming response that Secretary Gwadosky authorized the compilation of the stories of our veterans in the book "Maine Remembers Those Who Served." The book is now available online and continues to grow with additional tributes each year link at http://maine.gov/sos/cec/elec/voter-info/veteran/toc.html . Participants can add a tribute to the veteran they are honoring by filling out the online form at http://maine.gov/sos/cec/elec/voter-info/veteran/tributeform.html .

To promote the Vote in Honor of a Veteran effort, the department will be sharing tributes from the book on the Department of the Secretary of State Facebook page through Election Day on Nov. 3. link to Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/MaineSOS?fref=ts .

Maine Veterans Council Announces Programs for Maine Veterans.

 

 

Veterans Count Maine

 

Do you know a veteran in need of any resources, such as work boots, tools for work, uniform, a computer to do a job search, or reliable transportation? WE CAN HELP.
Do you know a veteran who is looking for a job, needs someone to talk to, needs counseling or needs help navigating military benefits? WE CAN HELP.
Contact us today- and please help us spread the word!
207.828.0754 x1004 or send us a message here, all services are free and confidential.

VOLUNTEERS WANTED to PROTECT AND CARE for VETERANS CEMETERIES in Lebanon.

The Lebanon Maine Truth Seekers have been petitioning the Lebanon Maine Selectmen for months regarding caring for the many Veteran's Cemeteries and "Ancient Burial Grounds" within the Town of Lebanon.
As of yesterday, August 17, 2015, the Board has stated that they are willing to begin creating a Town Committee to care for and begin watching over the town's many small cemeteries.
As we know, the Prospect Hill Cemetery, one of the town's largest, has been being cared for by the Town of Milton, NH for many years and plans are in the works for turning over care of that cemetery back to the Town of Lebanon.
Several people have offered their services in volunteering to help watch over and keep up with the town's cemeteries, however, when they have been approached about being seated on an actual Committee, they have shied away from the responsibility.
Our past is our heritage, our pride and our history. It is our family and our friends. These cemeteries need repair, upkeep and recognition in our town on their own merit, and it is mandated by Maine State Law that the Town be responsible for it's Veteran's and "Ancient Burial Grounds".
Our goal is to create a Committee of varied people. We'd like to include people who are interested in the town's history, people who have family buried here, and people who are interested in honoring our Veterans and our Founding Fathers.
At this time we have four people who are interested in sitting on this brand new Committee. We would like to have 10-12. We would also like to have people of many age groups and with a variety of talents. We need organizers, people who love gardening, people who can do light maintenance work. We need people with pickup trucks and people who are interested in categorizing and recording the many graves in town through photos and files.
This Committee will require a 1 year commitment. We will be working together over the Winter months of 2015-2016 to create an agenda which will include work on all the cemeteries in town and putting together a budget for their care to be put forth to the voters on the June 2016 Town Ballot.
Junior volunteers aged 16 and over will also be considered for Community Service hours toward Noble High School Graduation requirements.
This Committee is anticipating meetings once a month and volunteer hours twice a month, however once the committee is formed, we will work with all new members to create a schedule that is workable for all.
IF you are interested in becoming a part of this Lebanon Cemetery Care Committee, please contact Deborah Dorey Wilson or Sandy Adams via e mail at lebanonmainetruthseekers@Hotmail.com .

VIEW the Maine State Law requiring Towns and Municipalities to care for Veteran's Graves and Ancient Burial Grounds HERE
http://www.mainelegislature.org/legis/bills/bills_126th/billtexts/SP010701.asp

Maine Joins Homegrown By Heroes Farming Initiative.

 

 

State of Maine Joins Homegrown By Heroes Program

Davis, CA-July 24, 2015—Farmer Veteran Coalition has announced that the State of Maine has officially partnered with the Homegrown By Heroes (HBH) program.

Farmer Veteran Coalition Chief Operations Officer Jason Foscolo joined Walter Whitcomb, Commissioner of Agriculture for the State of Maine in a ceremony to announce the partnership. The “Homegrown By Heroes – Maine partnership will work to promote agricultural products grown and/or produced by Maine farmer veterans. The ceremony took place at Ireland Hill Farms in Swanville, ME with numerous farmer veterans and government officials in attendance.

The Homegrown By Heroes (HBH) program is a marketing initiative created to help veterans who have gone into agriculture to promote and market their farm products. The label has gained national recognition, and provides an easily recognizable means for consumers to identify products that have been grown and produced by US military veterans. Consumers can show their support by shopping for products bearing the HBH label.

Commissioner Walt Whitcomb noted the importance of creating programs for returning veterans to farm. “The Ireland Hill farm is a great example. Ireland family support for the Maine Farmer Veteran Coalition and the national "Homegrown By Heroes" label will encourage other veterans to become Maine farmers,” said Whitcomb. “On behalf of Governor LePage and the First Lady, I thank the Irelands and wish their new farm great success.”

 “We are honored to partner with the State of Maine in this exceptional program to benefit farmer veterans in their endeavors in agriculture,” said Michael O’Gorman, Founder and Executive Director of Farmer Veteran Coalition. “The Homegrown By Heroes program is uniquely positioned to create opportunities for consumers to show their support for American veterans, and we are happy to be able to bring this opportunity to farmer veterans in Maine.”

Maine is the fifth state to officially partner with the Homegrown By Heroes program joining Kentucky, Illinois, Ohio, and Arkansas. Several more states are slated to enter into formal agreements, also joining the initiative.

Established by the Kentucky Department of Agriculture in 2013, the Homegrown By Heroes program is managed on a national scale through Farmer Veteran Coalition, and is open to any veteran or active duty service member who meets program requirements. To learn more about the program, visit www.farmvetco.org/homegrownbyheroes.  

About Homegrown By Heroes

Homegrown By Heroes is a product labeling program that identifies, promotes, and supports agricultural products grown and produced by U.S. veterans and those still serving in the U.S. military. The program was founded by the Kentucky Department of Agriculture and administered nationally by Farmer Veteran Coalition.

About Farmer Veteran Coalition

The mission of Farmer Veteran Coalition (FVC) is mobilizing veterans to feed America. FVC works to develop a new generation of farmers and food leaders, and expand viable employment and career opportunities through the collaboration of the farming and military communities. Through mentorship, peer support, and career counseling, FVC supports veterans returning to or beginning careers in the food and farming industry. For more information, visit www.farmvetco.org

 

 

About Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry

The Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry is charged with developing the state’s various land-based, natural resources including Maine agriculture, forests, outdoor recreation and public access.  They support the creation of new jobs and businesses, improving and supporting existing land-based industries and streamlining regulations. Additionally, the agency assists beginning farmers, halts forest fires, maps the ocean floor, and keeps public parks and land pristine and accessible.

Governor LePage Urges All Maine Citizens to Observe Maine Korean War Veteran Recognition Day, Monday, July 27.

 

 

Governor Signs Proclamation Recognizing Maine Korean War Veterans

07/24/2015 03:19 PM EDT

AUGUSTA - Maine Korean War Veteran Recognition Day is Monday, July 27. To mark the special day, Governor Paul R. LePage today signed a proclamation honoring all Korean War Veterans and encouraged Mainers to recognize the observance.

The proclamation recognizes all Maine Korean War veterans, as well as the 38 POW/MIA and 245 lives lost by the State of Maine during the war. More than 36,000 lives were lost in the United States and more than 100,000 wounded.

"Their legacy of patriotism and dedication to country is an inspiration to all Americans," stated Governor LePage. "This is a war that many consider the "forgotten war" so it's important that we remember and honor our veterans for their service and sacrifice."

The proclamation language is as follows:

WHEREAS, on June 25, 1950, Communist North Korea invaded the Republic of Korea with approximately 135,000 troops, initiating the Korean War; and

WHEREAS, nearly 1.8 million members of the United States Armed Forces served along with the forces of the Republic of Korea and 20 other Allied nations under the United Nations Command to defend freedom and democracy in the Korean Peninsula; and

WHEREAS, the United States suffered with 36,574 lives lost and 103,284 wounded, and the State of Maine lost 38 POW/MIA and 245 lives during the Korean War in some of the most horrific conditions in the history of warfare; and

WHEREAS, 60 years have passed since the signing of the cease-fire agreement at Panmunjom on July 27, 1953, yet the Korean peninsula still technically remains in a state of war, and the Korean War has become a "Forgotten War" to many Americans; and

WHEREAS, many of the members of the Armed Forces who fought in the Korean War returned home without the fanfare that greeted the heroes of World Wars I and II; and

WHEREAS, the Korean War veterans deserve to be recognized by all Americans for their honorable service during the Korean War in the defense of democracy and freedom.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, PAUL R. LEPAGE, Governor of the State of Maine, do hereby proclaim that July 27, 2015 to be

MAINE KOREAN WAR VETERAN RECOGNITION DAY

throughout the State of Maine, and urge all citizens to recognize this observance.

Pets For Vets Celebrates its First Year in Maine Matching Shelter Pets with Military Veterans.

 

As Pets for Vets celebrates their first year of connecting US Military Veterans with Shelter Pets, they now offer the ability to apply online!

Some estimates say that as many as 20% of our returning military veterans suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). The goal of Pets for Vets is to ease the emotional and physical suffering of our returning military veterans by matching them with a shelter pet who also benefits from the animal / human bonding and having their own home.

All pets in the Pets for Vets program have worked with professional pet trainers to ensure their good manners and best behavior so that they easily fit into a veteran's home and lifestyle. Desensitization training to crutches, walkers and wheelchairs is also given, depending on the veteran who will be receiving this special new family member.

Pets for Vets is a concrete way to thank U.S. Military Veterans for their service.

• Featured on NPR, CBS2 and CNN, PBS and the Pentagon Channel
• Donations are tax deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law
• Serving veterans in our chapter areas
• With each veteran-pet match we provide the necessary equipment for them to start their new life together

All Maine Veterans interested in obtaining their own pet through the Pets for Vets program are encouraged to contact the agency or fill out the Pets for Vets application online by visiting their website at: http://www.pets-for-vets.com/

 

 

HELP for Veterans Struggling With PTSD, York County Suicide Prevention Hotline

 

Please remember that not all military deaths happen on foreign soil.

I AM my brother's keeper.

We can not possibly prevent every suicide, but 22 a day is far too many!!

If you think that someone you love is suicidal, don't wait until it's too late.

Call your local suicide prevention hotline!!

 

YORK COUNTY SUICIDE PREVENTION HOTLINE

(207) 324-1111

 

Sandy shares WCSH6 News Story on WWII Veterans Visit to Washington DC.

 

This morning I watched the following news and video about World War 11 veterans visiting Washington. It was a very touching moment and I wanted to share this with you. My husband was a veteran of two wars and I remember well the impact each of them had on our lives. Least we forget, in our busy lives, there are young men and women we give of themselves selfishly to protect the freedom from oppression that we all share in our country. Many of these now seniors were very young men who went to war . There is another trip to be funded to send another group. I will post the particulars when they are available. In the meantime be thankful.

See the story from WCSH6 News by clicking on the link below:

http://www.wcsh6.com/story/news/local/2015/05/11/honor-flight-veterans-made-mark-in-washington-dc/27143697/