Once again, we had a successful Yard Sale and Craft Fair. For all those who stopped by and made a donation to obtain so many “treasures,” thank you! We didn’t have as many “tables” “purchased” as we have had in the past, but those who did participate said their day was “very successful.” So, I hope next year we “fill the common.” A very special thanks goes out to Stephanie Hawke who once again provided her culinary art skills to the grill! And, this year, she provided the big 20-foot by 20-foot tent the Legion used to cover our tables. This was more than exceptional as she and family/friends had to be there at 5 a.m. to set up. Also, a special thanks to Jasper and Heather Orne, for they provided all night security on the common. And, of course to all those Legionnaires who provided their selling skills to ensure a successful Yard Sale.

I want to share an experience that I feel needs to be told. Last Friday, the Legion lost one of its own, Gerard “Rod” Gorman. Rod was a proud Marine who saw combat in Korea. I was honored to see this proud Marine in his dress blues when attending his viewing. On Tuesday, I was further honored to drive Mrs Gorman, Ruth, to the Maine Veteran Cemetery in Augusta. I picked up Ruth and drove to Hall’s Funeral Home where we joined the hearse with the Marine Corps emblem on the side. As we drove along Route 27 north of Wiscasset, there was a man with his young daughter working in their yard. As we drove by, the young man turned to face the hearse, his daughter as well, he came to sharp attention and did a very military salute, holding it until we were well passed. There was no one around to see this, no crowd to observe, just him, alone with his thoughts, paying his last tribute. If by chance that young man reads this article, I want to relay to him just how meaningful that was to me and to Ruth, a picture I will never forget. One Marine paying his last respects to another Marine. It reminded me that we truly are a band of brothers and sisters, regardless of service or era served, a bond that lasts forever.

The next Post 36 meeting is Monday, Aug. 13 at 5:30 p.m. We will be having a barbecue with hot dogs, hamburgers and all the trimmings prior to the meeting starting at 6 p.m. The revitalized Unit 36 Auxiliary joins us at the barbecue and meets at the same time. All veterans, or family members of veterans, members of the Legion or auxiliary or not, are welcome to join us for the barbecue. You are also more than welcome to be part of the meeting as well. I would be honored to have many guests be part of the meeting.

And, our next breakfast is Aug. 12 and hope to see many of you there!