Hundreds turn out for grand opening of veterans’ home

Several hundred Washington County veterans, their friends and family sat in bright sunshine September 6 to view the dedication of the long-awaited veterans' home in Machias adjacent to Down East Community Hospital. Governor John Baldacci and other dignitaries lauded the special efforts of area veterans and legislators who lobbied for the facility for more than 15 years, singling out former Representative Harry Vose of Meddybemps, the late Maynard Connors, and Adfer Tenan and his widow, Lois, for special recognition.

The $9.5 million home, which accepted its first residents this week, has 30 private rooms, a central courtyard, dining rooms, living rooms and gardens all designed to project a homelike rather than an institutional atmosphere. It was planned for veterans and eligible family members who are in the early stages of dementia.

The grand opening ceremony began with the presentation of the colors by a squad of U.S. Marines from Topsham, the Pledge of Allegiance led by Chris Mulcahy of the Washington County Veterans Committee, the national anthem sung by Sheri Herman, and a prayer by Rev. Betty Duzen. Governor Baldacci gave the keynote address. Other speakers included Timothy Politis, CEO for Maine Veterans' Homes, Jeff Herman, administrator for the Machias home, and representatives from the offices of Senators Olympia Snowe and Susan Collins. State Senator Kevin Raye and Representatives Howard McFadden and Eddie DuGay were honored guests, along with Mrs. Tenan and former Rep. Vose.

The Machias Town Band under the direction of Gene Nichols offered a medley of songs associated with each branch of the military, asking veterans of the particular service to stand as their branch was honored. A ribbon-cutting ceremony, a blessing of the facility by Rev. Duzen and a flag-raising ended the dedication. A tour of the building and refreshments followed.

In his remarks, Politis recalled a question posed by Benjamin Franklin to the Continental Congress that was prompted by a painted depiction of the sun on a chair back: "Is the sun rising or setting on the United States?" Rephrasing the query and answering it, Politis said the completion of the veterans' home is yet another sign the sun is rising in the sunrise county.