Regent Audrey Miller and Vice Regent Barbara Belknap of Pemaquid Chapter of Daughters of the American Revolution were joined by Jeffrey and Alexis Miller March 29 (Vietnam War Remembrance Day) as Police Chief Larry Hesseltine once again hoisted the Vietnam veterans memorial flag up under the American flag in front of the Wiscasset town office for all to see as they drive by on Routes 1 and 27. This is the fourth consecutive year the Chapter has chosen this simple way to honor all those who bravely served in the Vietnam War and the sacrifices they, their families and caregivers have made on behalf of our nation.

The Vietnam War lasted from 1959 to 1975. The U.S.’s military involvement began in 1964. Vietnam War American military deaths totaled 58,307. Throughout the War, nine million Americans earned the title of United States veteran.

After the flag was raised, Regent Miller gave brief remarks outlining the history above and to remember the 48,000 men and women from Maine who served the nation’s call in Vietnam. Maine has 343 names etched in black granite on the wall in the nation’s capital and 12 of our young men are still missing in Southeast Asia.

“Today, we fly this flag to acknowledge our deep respect and admiration for our Vietnam veterans. Today, we recall these sacrifices and say ... thank you for your service, we have not forgotten you, we will never forget you,” said Regent Miller.

Barbara Belknap recited the following:

“To the Vietnam Veteran: To those who returned with no one to greet them; to those who have been told PTSD would go away in time; to those who have never been told thank you or welcome home; to those who returned but are still haunted by the nightmares of war; to those who still react to a backfire and break a sweat at the sound of a chopper; to those who suffer from agent orange exposure and are still fighting the last battle; to those who fought battles in the jungles of Vietnam and here at home; to those who have more friends on the Vietnam Memorial Wall than alive today: Thank you!”

Pemaquid Chapter, NSDAR, is a non-profit, non-political, volunteer organization. Any woman 18 years or older who can prove lineal descent from a patriot of the American Revolution is eligible to join. This chapter has proudly served our communities in Lincoln County since 1932. Find us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PemaquidDAR/ or visit www.mainedar.org/pemaquid. If you would like to become a member and join us in service to our communities in Lincoln County, please contact Regent Miller at 633-7089.