Battlefield Cross Memorial Remembrance Ceremony Honors Maine’s Fallen Heroes

AUGUSTA – A solemn ceremony today recognized Mainers who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the Global War on Terror. Governor Paul R. LePage joined Brigadier General James D. Campbell, Adjutant General of Maine, to host the 2013 Battlefield Cross remembrance ceremony in the Hall of Flags of the State House.

Four Identification Tags bearing the names of servicemen and women with ties to Maine who died during overseas contingency operations were added to the Battlefield Cross Memorial, bringing the total number to 54 names.

Members of the Maine Honor Guard individually placed the identification tags on the memorial as the names of the fallen Soldiers were read. A crisp Salute was then rendered in remembrance of each Soldier. Identical identification tags were presented to the family members in attendance.

The Battlefield Cross is a symbolic representation for Soldiers who have been killed in action, and its origins date back to the Civil War. The helmet and identification tags signify the fallen Soldier, their name never to be forgotten. The inverted rifle with bayonet symbolizes a time for prayer, a break in the action to pay tribute to a fallen comrade. The combat boots, worn and dirty, represent the final march of the Soldier’s last battle.

Nearly one hundred people gathered Friday to honor Maine fallen heroes. Speakers included the Governor, Brigadier General James D. Campbell, and Peter Ogden of Maine Veterans’ Services. Maine’s First Lady today also paid her respects to the families of the fallen. “I can safely say that from all I have seen across this state and this country, Americans deeply respect the sacrifices our service members make to protect the things and the people they love. It is a respect that is removed from age, gender or politics and unites us as a nation,” she said.

Governor LePage read a Proclamation declaring May 27, 2013 as Gold Star Family Day. “I am very proud to declare May 27, 2013 Gold Star Family Day in honor of the Maine families of the fallen who have given so much. Your sacrifice touches all of us deeply, and Maine citizens are with you in your loss,” said Governor LePage.

Brigadier General James D. Campbell addressed the family members of the fallen. “Our ceremony today recognizes their sacrifice and honors their service,” the General said. “It is fitting that as we approach Memorial Day we come together as a family to acknowledge the unique bond shared by Soldiers willing to give their lives for the person next to them.”

The four brave Soldiers honored today are Private First Class Tyler Springmann of Hartland, Captain John Brainard III of Dover-Foxcroft, Staff Sergeant Jessica Wing of Glenburn and Sergeant First Class Aaron Henderson of Houlton.

The Battlefield Cross was dedicated to the State in 2009 and is displayed in the Hall of Flags. The inscription on the memorial reads: State of Maine Global War on Terrorism Memorial. This Battlefield Cross stands as a lasting Tribute “To those who have made the ultimate sacrifice from a grateful State”. Thank you for your willingness to serve our State and nation by answering the call to duty. With great pride and deep sorrow, we honor you for your sacrifice. You will be in our hearts and minds forever. Dedicated May 2009