James Seigars James Seigars dedicates the Memorial Bench Monday, Nov. 12. (Photo Charlotte Boynton)

The American Legion Post #54 of Wiscasset dedicated a new bench during their Veterans' Day ceremony at the Veterans' Honor Roll monument next to the town office building Monday, November 12.

The granite bench was donated by Galen Cole, owner of the Cole Land Transportation Museum located in Bangor. Cole, a veteran of World War II is well known throughout Maine for his generosity to veterans.

The bench is carved from Maine granite, and is engraved with words "In Memory of all Veterans" across the top center, and "All Gave Some" and "Some Gave All," on each side.

During the ceremony Selectman David Nichols accepted the Veterans' Memorial Bench on behalf of the town, which was followed by the dedication of the bench by Post Commander James Seigars.

"Citizens of Wiscasset, members of American Legion Post #54 and friends: We are gathered here today for a grateful and patriotic duty, to dedicate this memorial bench as a gift to the town of Wiscasset. This bench will serve as a perpetual memorial to our veterans who died in their country's service and to those who offered their lives so that justice, freedom and democracy might survive.

"The lives of those who made the supreme sacrifice are glorious before us. Their heroic deeds are an inspiration. As they served America in time of war, so that liberty might live, may we, the living, accept their heritage and continue to serve our community and America," Seigars said.

Last year Cole contacted Jeff Gammelin, owner of Freshwater Stone and Brickwork, Inc. and ordered 50 benches to be donated to Maine communities on a first come first serve basis. Several communities in Maine have taken advantage of the offer.

Legionnaire Joe Wentworth laid a wreath at the Veteran's memorial for the American Legion. Clara Went-worth placed a wreath on behalf of the Daughters of the American Revolution.

Post Chaplain Walter Meite gave the benediction to close the Veteran's Day service with the following words:

"We ask your blessing upon this community, and its citizens. Bless the American Legion and its members. May this memorial bench, along with the Honor Roll, serve for the good of the many. May it uplift us all to constant devotion to your teachings and to the welfare of our country."

Afterwards, the Legion Post hosted a public luncheon for members, their families and guests.