Maine Memo — In support and recognition of those who serve

Dear members of the University of Maine and University of Maine at Machias communities,

This week at UMaine and UMaine Machias, and at the other universities in the University of Maine System, we have had events and activities to recognize, honor and celebrate our veterans past and present. Today, Veterans Day, we reflect on the dedication of all who have been called to duty and are serving, and what difference their individual and collective efforts make in the name of freedom.

This day, known originally as Armistice Day, celebrated the end of World War I. Today, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs notes that the holiday honors and celebrates all veterans “for their patriotism, love of country, and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good.”

UMaine’s Veterans Education and Transition Services has a Book of Memory, an initiative that has been in the works since 2014, inspired by the original Book of Memory created by the Alumni Association in 1946 that honored and memorialized UMaine’s fallen from WWII. VETS’ Book of Memory is in the Memorial Room in the Memorial Union, where plaques list the more than 260 names of UMaine fallen from all conflicts dating to the Spanish American War. A digital copy of the Book of Memory is available for download.

As we observe this day away from work and classes, I would like to extend my deep gratitude to all service members and veterans, including our students, faculty, and staff at the University of Maine and the University of Maine at Machias, for their contributions to our community and their courageous service to our nation.

Tomorrow, there will be a display honoring area veterans at the UMaine Machias Reynolds Center during the Machias Fall Festival, the last of our Veterans Week activities for this year. Whenever possible, I encourage you to explore opportunities to hear and understand the powerful stories of veterans from all branches of our military. Take an active role in learning more about the experiences of those who have served, and provide support to veterans and their families in our community.

With sincere appreciation,

Joan Ferrini-Mundy
President