Although day two of Wings Over Wiscasset was all about high-flying stunts, the day remained grounded, as well.

Saturday, August 9 featured the war bird airshow featuring the Texas Flying Legends, but the afternoon didn’t start until the veterans in attendance were recognized.

When it came time to honor the veterans, Bristol’s own Captain William Bradbury with the 1st of the 224th Aviation out of Bangor was on hand to present the awards.

“I’d like to start by saying thank you for inviting me and giving me the opportunity to honor our veterans at this event,” he said. “Today, I have the distinct pleasure to recognize these service members for the sacrifices they’ve made, so that we may live our lives the way we do now. Thank you.”

 Bradbury said that while the years change, the morals never do; they are instead passed down from one generation of veterans to the next.

“When I was asked to present today I was happy to be given the opportunity,” he said. “Then I was you wanted me to speak — I thought ‘What can I say that hasn’t already been said a thousand times?’ Probably nothing, but unless I’ve personally thanked every veteran I, we, should continue to thank them.

“I’m grateful for all the lessons you have taught us, all the things you learned the hard way so we wouldn’t have to, and for teaching me what dedication and duty mean.”

The awards including certificates of appreciation from Maine’s First Lady, Ann LePage.

Shortly after honors were given to several veterans in attendance, the attention again turned to the skies, where the Texas Flying Legends showcased several vintage figter planes, including a Corsair and  P-51 Mustang.