Maine Military Funeral Honors Program
Recognized for Excellence by Governor
Story and Photos by Sgt. Angela Parady, 121st Public Affairs Detachment
“Every day is unique,
like a tumbleweed from the
old wild west movies,” said
Jason. “You just don’t know
what way the wind will
blow.”
something Smith never wants to give up.
Private 1st Class Jason Smith, along
with 16 other members of the Maine
Military Honors Funeral Program, was
honored Wed, Dec. 4 with a luncheon at
the Blaine House with Maine Governor
Paul R. LePage, and First Lady Ann
LePage.
“These men and women stand in all
weather conditions, unable to break their
composure for an hour or more to give
honors to fallen soldiers and their family,”
said Smith. “We are often that family’s
lasting impression of their loved one, and
we bear these conditions for them. These
families are suffering. Their loved one is
gone. To be able to give them a flag, with
a few words of comfort in recognition for
their loved ones service, is worth it all.”
The service members were invited
to meet with the Governor to recognize
the significance of completing the
rendering of honors for 10,000 funerals in
Maine since 2003, when the program first
began.
Smith, a construction engineer for the
262nd Engineer Company in Westbrook,
enlisted in the National Guard just over a
year ago. When he returned to Maine from
basic training his platoon sergeant asked
him if he might be interested in the Honor
Guard program. What began as a part
time job eight months ago has become
Smith currently resides in
Springfield, and said he is rewarded with
the leadership and training he receives as
part of his role, making him ready to give
100 percent at all services, and always
ready for anything.
Smith said he felt the personal
recognition from the Governor and First
Lady helped give encouragement and
bring visibility to the work of the men and
women who volunteer their time for this
program.
LePage thanked the service
members for their admirable work, their
dedication, and for representing the state
well during all of their events. He said
Maine’s profound dedication and service to
the country means that Maine has a large
population of veterans.
“Our brave men and
women, and their families
have shouldered the
price, and all too often the
ultimate sacrifice is made,”
said LePage.
“I have written too many letters of
condolence to the families of the fallen.
It is, by far, the most difficult part of my
job. What I do hope families take from
these words, however, is how deeply
appreciative I am for their sacrifice. They
have fought for us, and died for us, and
it is our duty to show that we are grateful
for all of our fallen heroes.”
The Maine Military Honors Funeral
Program also participates in community
events, presentation of the colors at major
league sports and school functions, and
dedications for veterans, such as a 21 gun
salute.