This Sunday, kicking off the Windjammers Days Festival in Boothbay Harbor, is the traditional Blessing of the Fleet in Boothbay Harbor located at the Fishermen’s Memorial in front of Our Lady Queen of Peace, Catholic Church. The event highlights the continuing importance of Maine’s working waterfront. We tend to lose sight of the importance of our commercial fishermen around this time of year as the tourists start to pour into town. This event reminds us that commercial fishermen, lobstermen, boat builders, and marine business remain an essential part of the local economy and identity. For all of us, watching the harbor, every fishing crew heading offshore, and every mariner navigating Maine’s rugged coastline carries on a proud tradition built on skill, perseverance and courage. This event is an opportunity to honor the people who make their living on the water and to celebrate the enduring bond between the Boothbay region and the sea that continues to define who we are. This year, our Dr. Capt. Barclay Shepard will Lay the Wreath. Barclay, by the way, is celebrating his 100th birthday! 

The Windjammers Festival which runs through Saturday, includes all sorts of events including “Pirates of the Dark Rose” conducting interactive pirate encampments and firing their cannons. And, of course there will be fireworks on Wednesday. This also reminds me of the annual Boothbay Harbor fireworks on the Fourth of July.

I think it is important to remember that there will be some among us who will be struggling with some of these activities. For many of us, the booming of a pirate cannon or the spectacular display of fireworks is simply part of a summer celebration. For others, especially veterans who have lived through combat, those same sounds can instantly transport them to a much different place and time. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is an invisible wound. You cannot see it, and often you would never know the person standing beside you is fighting an internal battle. They may quietly leave the crowd before the fireworks begin, wear headphones to soften the noise, or simply choose to stay home while family and friends enjoy the festivities. It is not because they are unfriendly or unpatriotic. In fact, many of them are the very men and women whose service helped preserve the freedoms that allow us to gather and celebrate.

As we enjoy another wonderful Windjammer Days Festival, perhaps we can also extend a little understanding and compassion. A friendly smile, a little patience, or simply recognizing that not every struggle is visible can make a meaningful difference. The veterans in our community are our neighbors, friends, and family members. They have carried burdens for our country, and during this week of celebration, they deserve our appreciation and our understanding as much as our applause. 

The fun starts Sunday! For a schedule of events, go to: https://www.boothbayharborwindjammerdays.org/