Since the revolutionary war, over one million Americans have paid the ultimate price serving in our military –for all of us. In Bangor the annual Memorial Day Parade brought out close to four thousand people to remember their sacrifice.

The streets were mostly lined with many young families, and retirees. I was heartwarming to see a large contingent of WWII veterans and veterans from all subsequent wars. All branches of the service marched. Governor John Baldacci, a Bangor native, was Grand Marshal.

After marching and reviewing the parade with Congressman Michaud, Councilman Richard Stone and a ‘Bangor troop greater’ he placed a wreath at the Battleship Maine Monument. The Governor has attended many Memorial Day events in Bangor and he said that each one gets better because more people attend.

“When I first began participating, the crowds were not as great as they are today,” said Governor Baldacci. “I’ve noticed each year more and more people turn out. People understand the importance of those sacrifices and realize that their son or daughter or someone else’s son or daughter is off somewhere in harm’s way or has made the ultimate sacrifice.”

He reflected upon the specialness of the state that has more than 160,000 veterans and service personal.

“Maine is one large community, in times of need we act like an extended family looking out for each other, caring for one another. The people of Maine make our state special,” he said. “It’s wonderful that so many people chose to come here, on a beautiful sunny vacation day to give their respect for those that have made the ultimate sacrifice, and reflect why they did it.”