December Newsletter

The Maine Bureau of Veterans’ Services (MBVS) is pleased to announce updates to the eligibility criteria for burial in the Maine Veterans’ Memorial Cemetery System. These changes, enacted under Public Law 2022, Chapter 593, expand eligibility to include members of the Maine National Guard and certain Reserve Component members, ensuring broader access to the honor and dignity of resting in one of Maine’s veterans’ cemeteries.

The updated rules reflect Maine’s commitment to honoring all who have served in the United States Armed Forces, National Guard, and Reserve Components. This includes Guard members and Reservists who completed their initial military service contract and received an honorable discharge, as well as those who died under specific conditions while serving. Eligible spouses and dependents also qualify for burial, preserving the legacy of family service and sacrifice.

• Expanded Coverage for Guard and Reserve Members: Includes those who completed their first military service contract with an honorable discharge and those who died in the line of duty while serving in Active Guard Reserve or active state service.
• Support for Spouses and Dependents: Eligible dependents include spouses, minor children, and certain adult children with disabilities.
• Headstones, Markers, or Columbarium Niche Covers: The State of Maine now provides headstones or markers at no cost for eligible Guard members, Reservists, and their dependents. Funding is supported through a designated plot allowance, ensuring perpetual care for the cemeteries.

Director David Richmond of the Maine Bureau of Veterans’ Services stated, “In accordance with the federal enactment of the Burial Equity Act, the State of Maine has passed the necessary legislation and allocated the resources required to honor Maine National Guard servicemembers and Reservists for their selfless service to our state—in times of war and peace—and in countless civil emergencies through the years.”  

MBVS encourages veterans, guard members, reservists, and their families to learn about burial eligibility and plan for future needs. To qualify, individuals must meet specific service requirements and discharge conditions outlined in the new rules which can be found on our website.

For more information about eligibility requirements, cemetery locations, or to begin the application process, please visit www.maine.gov/veterans or contact the Maine Bureau of Veterans’ Services at (207) 287-3481.

• Maine Statute: Maine Veterans' Memorial Cemetery System

• Cemetery Eligibility Application (PDF)

As the colder months settle in, the Maine Bureau of Veterans’ Services (MBVS) wants to remind veterans and their families about the winter-specific benefits and support systems available to help you thrive through the season.

•Disabled Veteran Hunting and Fishing Licenses: Maine offers complimentary hunting and fishing licenses for disabled veterans with a service connected disability rating of 50% or greater. Enjoy ice fishing and other seasonal activities while taking advantage of this benefit.

•State Park Passes: Eligible veterans can obtain free lifetime passes to Maine state parks. While some parks may be snow-covered, many offer winter hiking and cross-country skiing opportunities.

We are also proud to collaborate with organizations like VAST, Operation ReBoot Outdoors, House in the Woods, and Maine Veterans Project to create meaningful experiences that contribute to veterans’ physical and mental well-being. These partnerships emphasize the healing power of nature and the importance of community for our veteran population.

Several organizations provide outstanding winter recreational opportunities and support for veterans:

•Veterans’ Adaptive Sports & Training (VAST): Located at Pineland Farms in New Gloucester, VAST offers adaptive skiing, snowshoeing, sled hockey, and other activities to ensure all veterans, regardless of ability, can enjoy Maine’s winter landscapes. Their programs also focus on physical fitness, mental well-being, and camaraderie.

•Operation ReBoot Outdoors: This veteran-led nonprofit connects service members, veterans, and their families with outdoor adventures, including ice fishing, winter hiking, and hunting. Their mission is to use nature-based experiences to foster resilience and community among veterans.

•House in the Woods: Based in Lee, Maine, this nonprofit provides outdoor retreats, including winter activities like snowmobiling and ice fishing, to honor and support veterans and their families. Their programs offer a chance to connect with nature and others who understand the veteran experience.

•Maine Veterans Project (MVP): MVP is dedicated to serving Maine’s veteran community through a variety of initiatives, including organizing recreational activities like ice fishing tournaments. Their efforts focus on reducing veteran isolation, fostering connections, and promoting mental health through meaningful engagements.

Maine also boasts incredible opportunities for ice fishing enthusiasts, with nearly 6,000 lakes and ponds available for this iconic winter activity. Many veterans’ organizations host ice fishing events and tournaments throughout the season, creating opportunities to bond over shared experiences. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, these events are a great way to get involved.

Winter can be a challenging time, but it’s also an opportunity to connect with nature, build community, and access vital resources. We encourage you to reach out to MBVS for any assistance or to learn more about the benefits and programs available to you.

Together, we can ensure Maine’s veterans enjoy a safe, warm, and fulfilling winter season. For more information, visit maine.gov/veterans or call us at 207-287-7020

Upcoming Wreaths Across America Events

On Saturday, December 14 wreaths will be laid on the gravesites at our Veterans' Memorial Cemeteries in Augusta, Caribou, and Springvale at the following times:

• Augusta, 163 Mt. Vernon Ave: 9:00 a.m.
• Augusta, 143 Blue Star Ave: 11:00 a.m.
• Caribou, 37 Lombard Rd: 10:00 a.m.
• Springvale, 83 Stanley Rd: 12:00 p.m.

To volunteer, contact www.wreathsacrossamerica.org , click volunteer along with the zip code of the cemetery location.

MBVS Participates in the Oxford Hills Chamber of Commerce Holiday Parade

The Oxford Hills Chamber of Commerce Holiday Parade was themed "Home for the Holidays" a tribute to those who have served our Nation.

The parade featured veterans, active service personnel, and numerous veteran service organizations including the Maine Bureau of Veterans' Services represented by Communications Director Ryan Lorrain and co-pilot Comet.

Veterans and Community Connection Expo

Saturday, January 11th the Maine Bureau of Veterans' Services will be participating in the Veterans and Community Connections Expo at the Wells Conference Center at the University of Maine at Orono (131 Munson Road, Orono) from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

The event is open to veterans, survivors, service members, and their families featuring connection to federal, state, and local resources and benefits. Music, giveaways, kid friendly activities, and tickets for the UMaine Women Basketball game for the first 150 attendees.

Upcoming Events

December 14 - Wreath placement at Maine Veterans' Memorial Cemeteries:

• Augusta, 163 Mt. Vernon Ave: 9:00 a.m.
• Augusta, 143 Blue Star Ave: 11:00 a.m.
• Caribou, 37 Lombard Rd: 10:00 a.m.
• Springvale, 83 Stanley Rd: 12:00 p.m.

December 15 – Milk and Cookies with Santa for Military Families at the Blaine House. 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. Pre-registration is required - https://tinyurl.com/58xswjdf

December 22 – Christmas at Our Heroes Military Museum, 55 W. Broadway, Lincoln, ME. 2:00 – 5:00 p.m.

December 22 – Millinocket Festival of Lights Parade – Begins at Stearns High School and continues through Penobscot Ave. to Veterans’ Memorial Park.

4:00 – 6:00 p.m.

December 24 & 25 - Maine Bureau of Veterans' Services Offices Closed for the Holiday.

January 11, 2025 – American Legion Mid-Winter Conference at Jeff’s Catering & Event Center, 15 Littlefield Way, Brewer, ME.

January 24 – 25 – House in the Woods Ice Fishing. Retreat requires pre-registration - https://www.houseinthewoods.org/events

January 24-27 – Veterans No Boundaries Winter Ski Camp at Sunday River Ski Resort in Newry, ME. Free to all veterans and active duty personnel with permanent disabilities including PTSD. FMI https://maineadaptive.org/participate/



January 27 – City of Biddeford Veterans Committee Meeting from 4:30 – 5:30 pm.