V = Veterans
Maine has a long history of military service and sacrifice.
According to the Maine Army National Guard, their oldest unit — the 133rd Engineer Battalion — began serving in 1760 and continues today, 260 years later.
The contribution of Mainers during the Civil War is remarkable…
Approximately 73,000 Mainers served in the Union Army and Navy during the war, the highest figure in proportion to population of any northern state.
Spend time in any Maine town and you’re likely to spot a veteran wearing a hat that specifies the war in which they served. Other visible reminders are during Veterans Day parades and ceremonies which are held all over the state. Maine has one of the largest state percentages of veterans within its adult population: just over 11% according to the 2017 stats. The national average is 6.6%.
Not everyone returns home from military service. Those who do are rarely the same as those who left. War changes people and leaves scars — some visible, but many hidden from sight.
Not enough is done to support our veterans, but one dedicated location stands as a shining example of what is possible. In 2017, the Travis Mills Foundation opened a retreat center in Belgrade, Maine for veterans. One wonderful aspect of this haven is that it includes and welcomes the veteran’s family. Here is a short clip telling of their work:
If you are not familiar with the founder, Travis Mills, he and his wife live here in Maine. He is one of just five quadruple amputees from the Iraq and Afghanistan wars to survive his injuries. His story is inspiring.
If you haven’t watched his journey, it is available on Amazon. Have your tissues close by!
If you are a Maine vet, THANK YOU for your service!
This post is part of my A to Z Challenge Series with the overall theme, “This Maine Life.” I am covering a Maine-related topic with a different letter of the alphabet every day except Sundays throughout the month of April 2020.
