Thank you to all our Boothbay region lobstermen

Last Thursday, Sept. 22, area lobstermen turned out in force to honor are local veterans. Thank you Captains Knapp, Hallinan, Court, Goldhirsch, Farrin, Hawke, Gamage, Casey, Pottle, and the other captains who were ready to support; and to Fish’s Pink Lady II, and Nellie G. Approximately 55 veterans and their guests were able to enjoy a 1½ to 2 hour harbor cruise, swapping stories and experiences with their hosts. The lobstermen honored all veterans who proudly served. The veterans who enjoyed the hospitality of our lobstermen represented all our area veterans, including veterans from all wars and conflicts from World War II to the present.

Before they left on the harbor cruise, everyone enjoyed coffee, doughnuts and pastries, provided by many of our towns' generous store owners, on the most perfect fall morning on the deck of the Tugboat Inn. Pam Mancuso’s beautiful voice led us singing “God Bless America” and Tom Kerr provided a very moving and inspirational prayer. When they arrived back to the docks, they were lead up to the Tugboat Inn deck and enjoyed hot dogs and hamburgers courtesy of Kaler’s Restaurant, and assorted pizzas provided by Circle K, Boothbay Harbor House of Pizza, Bo-Bo’s Hometown Convenience Store, and Pier One Pizza.

Veterans and lobstermen are part of the fabric of the Boothbay region. Many of the lobstermen are veterans themselves. And, our non-veteran neighbors are part of our veteran family because of the support they provide. Just come and watch a Memorial Day Parade and you will see the pride our community has in our veterans.

And many thanks to the sponsors for the event: Washburn & Doughty. American Legion Post 36, Marine Corp League, Lions Club, Ocean Point Marina/Lobsterman’s Wharf, East Boothbay General Store, Harbor-Tech Solutions, and Pottle Realty Group. Also, thanks to the many volunteers who helped make this tribute to veterans a success. Special thanks to Police Chief Bob Hasch for not only providing parking help, but also helping veterans on and off the boats. In addition to Chief Hasch, Boothbay Town Manager Dan Bryer lent his hand (and back) assisting veterans with the boat transfers, and Steve Rubicam for being the event's official photographer. Hannaford once again graciously provided the paper goods, Sam’s Club the soft drinks, Shaw’s for their donation, Amy Ronan from St. Andrews Village the delicious blueberry cake, and Bonnie Stover and the Tugboat Inn for your great support!

And, George Whitten, our 93-year-old WW II veteran who, along with his wife Naomi, made beautiful notebooks and provide them to all veterans.

And a very special thanks and job well done to Phil Chapman who took up the reins this year to make this important and glorious day happen. Thank you Phil! There were many other familiar community faces who all were there to support our veterans. Thank you all.