BREWER, Maine (WABI) – The annual Bangor-Brewer Veterans Day Parade stepped off Tuesday morning from the Brewer Shopping Center. Along the streets until its completion in Downtown Bangor, spectators turned out to say thank you to the men and women who have served our country.
We spoke to veterans who came from near and far to take part in the parade. They say it feels nice to be recognized.
“This is the day that we get to honor all veterans. Whether it’s us being honored by others or us doing the same for all of those who have served. Freedom isn’t free and we’ve all devoted some part of our life, whether it was for a couple years or more to protect those freedoms,” said U.S. Navy Veteran Dan McGovern.
Milford’s Zeny Robbins participates every year in honor of her husband of more than four decades, Lawrence Robbins, a Navy veteran.
“My husband, I honor him every year. I promised him that I’m going to honor you every year on Veterans Day. I miss him a lot. It’s been 12 years, but we loved each other so much. So, this is my honor to him every year,” Robbins said through tears.
Gerald Bartlett, a Navy veteran from Newburgh, was participating for the first time.
The 90-year-old took a moment to reflect on his 20-year tenure that saw him serve in two wars.
“I was on two aircraft carriers, two destroyers, and a radar picket ship. I put the radar picket ship into commission down in Charleston, South Carolina, went through the Panama Canal, and it was at Treasure Island, California, we home ported. AGR-13, my lucky number,” said Bartlett.
Many spectators brought young ones along with them, teaching the importance of this day to the next generation.
“My dad’s a veteran, and now he is a Brewer firefighter. I just love how veterans serve for us because they save us sometimes,” said Amelia, of Brewer.
“It’s great for the kids to be able to experience this, say thanks, give appreciation to the men and women out there who have given their lives and supported us for many, many years,” said local scout leader Matt Adams.
“I want to wish all of the veterans out there a very thankful and thoughtful day. That’s why we’re here. And we’re thankful that we’re here to be able to do this,” said U.S. Navy Veteran John Starbird.
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