OAKFIELD, Maine — The community of Oakfield remembered those who died in defense of their country on Memorial Day with a service at the Oakfield Cemetery, a parade and ceremony at the Four Corners Veterans Memorial.
Four Corner Veterans Memorial’s name is derived from a post in the woods where all four towns come together, said Richard Burton, commander of Frank B. Holden Post 52.
The post has purchased four more flag poles and next week, they will be erected, along with grading to the ground. It is hoped that during the summer, the pavers will be put down inside the walls of the monument, with the grass planted and electric work completed.
“I would like to thank the towns and the townspeople for their contribution to this memorial,” said Burton. “You have been very generous.”
A highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of service award pins to James W. Burton for his 60 years of continuous work, along with a 70-year pin honoring George B. Clark for his commitment.
As Henry Joy, guest speaker, began his address, he said, “We pay tribute to all of those individuals who have given their lives to ensure the freedom that we have. To pay that tribute to all who sacrificed so much for you and for me.
“It does not end with us. Our freedoms extend to our children, grandchildren and to future generations,” Joy said. “as long as we are all aware that we have a duty to protect this country.”
Joy noted Memorial Day is “respectfully set aside to honor those whose dedication to freedom that our constitution holds for each and every one of us.”
He said those who maintain the constitutional freedom are “those who dedicate all or a portion of their lives to serve in the military of the United States.”
During Monday’s ceremony, the Southern Aroostook Community School band rendered the National Anthem and America the Beautiful, along with a special song written by Jan Votaw of Bridgewater called “Gone But Not Forgotten.”
To conclude the service, a wreath was laid at the monument in remembrance of those who gave their lives, with a seven-gun salute and the playing of Taps.
