Veterans Day at VETERANS' DAY at the American Legion's New Post Home attracted several veterans and guests. Left to right, front row seated, Olavi Meite, Alna; Erwin Skillin, Wiscasset; Elliott "Pucky" Abbott, Wiscasset; Donald Munsey, Dresden. (Photo Charlotte Boynton)

Veterans from World War II, Korean, and Vietnam gathered at the post to enjoy the day together and to welcome members of the community to their new home.

This was the first Veteran's Day celebration at the new post home. The previous post home, located on the Fort Hill Road was sold in January 2004. The legionnaires had been meeting at the Wiscasset Rod and Gun Club until they purchased the new Legion post, located on Route 1, across from the entrance to the Two Bridges Jail, now under construction.

Before going to the post for coffee and donuts, which was being hosted by Fred Peaslee, Legionnaires placed a wreath at the Veteran's Monument at the town office complex, which is a tradition of the local post, to honor all veterans of all wars.

There are many stories the veterans share regarding the sacrifices that were made during the wars they served.

During World War II, one story was told about a young soldier who had been asked by his younger brother what war was like. He wrote, "Take a combination of fear, anger, hunger, thirst, exhaustion, loneliness and homesickness, you might approach the feelings a fellow has."

"Most decisions on war and peace are decided by men who never have known combat, and hold no dread of another war for they don't know battle," the young soldier wrote.

The Legion home on the Fort Hill Road was purchased for $1,000 from Frances Sortwell, a well-known Wiscasset resident, to be used as the Legion home. In 2004 the home was sold to Maureen Barrett, a Westport Island resident, who converted it into an art gallery and cafe.

Post Commander James Seigars urges all members to attend the Post meetings held the first and third Monday of each month.