On Memorial Day, we often seem to focus on the wars of long ago.
We decorate the graves of Revolutionary War and Civil War veterans. We think about the soldiers who died in World War II or Vietnam.
We think it is important to also reflect on recent losses and our nation’s current military engagements.
Since Memorial Day 2017, 25 U.S. service members have died in combat or combat-related incidents in Afghanistan, Iraq, Niger, and Syria.
Memorial Day is more than a day to remember the heroes of Gettysburg or D-Day.
It is a day to think about the sacrifices service men and women continue to make in defense of America and its allies, and the risk service members face. Our nation remains at war, even if it looks different than it has in the past.
WESTPORT ISLAND
We are sorry to report that our Westport Island columnist, Pat Smith, is on an involuntary hiatus due to an arm injury sustained in a bicycle accident Friday, May 18.
Pat would welcome a volunteer to take over the column, temporarily or perhaps permanently.
If you live in Westport Island and would like to write a column about town happenings, email joliver@lcnme.com or call 563-3171 and ask for J.W. Oliver.
Pat would be glad to speak with prospective columnists herself. She tells us she can still peck away at an iPad with her good arm. To contact her, email pat-dick@midcoast.com or call 231-4049.
FORUMS
If you’re reading this before 6 p.m. Thursday, you still have time to get to the candidates forum for the Maine House District 88 Democratic primary in Whitefield.
The district includes Chelsea, Jefferson, part of Nobleboro, and Whitefield. Come ask a question or just listen to what the candidates have to say! See page 5 for details.
Next Thursday, May 31, The Lincoln County News will host another candidates forum, this time with the five candidates for three seats on the Wiscasset Board of Selectmen.
While we have publicized the Whitefield forum for weeks, this second forum has come together rather hastily. So tell your friends and neighbors! Spread the news!
We hope to see as many of our readers as possible at both forums.
