Korean War veteran and retired Boothbay Harbor Fire Chief Arthur Richardson has been selected as the 2026 Grand Marshal of the Memorial Day parade. The parade begins at Newagen on Monday, May 25 at 8:30 a.m.

Richardson has been an active member of the American Legion Post 36 for many years, serving as post commander and Sunday morning breakfast cook. Currently, he is the vice president and co-founder of Boothbay V.E.T.S. Inc., an organization that provides short-term shelter for homeless veterans, along with Ed Harmon, John Hargreaves and Brad Drummond.

Upon his graduation from Morse High School in Bath in 1954, Arthur joined the Air Force where he served in Morocco during the Korean War, 1959-1962.

In 1964, he began a 62-year career with the Boothbay Harbor Fire Department where he held many roles from truck operator to chief. Arthur continues as an active member today. Through his persistent determination, he designed and obtained the current distinctive Fire Fighter license plates with the assistance of Marge Kilkelly, former state representative.

Richardson was also a member of the Maine Fire Chiefs Association, member of the New England Fire Chiefs Association, and is a current member of the Lincoln County Fire Chiefs.

Other accomplishments include serving as master of Seaside Lodge #144 of Free Masons, worthy patron of the Eastern Star Crescent Chapter #54, and president of the Boothbay Harbor Cemetery District Association for over 15 years.

Arthur’s dedication and lifetime of service embodies the spirit of Memorial Day.