WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Three Maine families who have lost loved ones in service to their country attended a special tribute to America's fallen in Afghanistan and Iraq. For the first time, families from every state and US territory gathered with fellow Americans at the National Mall, Washington Monument Grounds, in Washington, DC to celebrate the lives of those who died for our freedom. Over 4000 people gathered for the national Time of Remembrance ceremony to honor the sacrifices made by generations of veterans since the Revolutionary War in the cause of freedom.

Quie Emery (Lee), the mother of Sgt. Blair Emery; Lorna Harris (Patten), mother of Spc. Dustin J. Harris, along with family members Michelle Troutt (Patten), Jeff Troutt (Hermon), and Cpt. Matthew and Vicki Arbogast with their children Josey, Marek, and Veronica (VA); and Paul and Dee House (Lee), parents of Sgt. Joel A. House, along with friends Rose and Tom Marcoux (VA) attended the September 20 ceremonies.

Ross Perot, USN Lieutenant Andy Baldwin (The Bachelor), and Luke Russert (son of Tim Russert) were among keynote speakers addressing the audience. Gold medals of remembrance were presented to children of the fallen. Descendents of fallen soldiers from every war since the Revolutionary War were recognized for their family's sacrifice to the cause of freedom. A replica of the Liberty Bell was rung by troops, some wounded, representing the Army, Marines, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, and Merchant Marine. Music was presented by the Tuskegee Airmen and the Singing Sergeants.

After the ceremony, members of the State Society of Maine entertained the Maine families at a small picnic where photos were taken.
The Commission on Remembrance, which initiated this program, was established in 2000 by Congress. Its purpose is to encourage Americans to honor those who died for our freedoms by giving something back to our country in their memory.

Quie, Paul, and Dee also had the opportunity to visit the World War II, Korean, and Vietnam War Memorials on their visit. While there they took the opportunity to look up the name of a Lee man who died during the Vietnam War. They found the name of Edward Hall on the Vietnam War Memorial and paid their respects to this highly decorated war hero.