Home of the Brave: Maine’s Proud Tradition of Medal of Honor Recipients

I don't have to tell you that we live in the greatest country in the world.

It's a place full of wonderful people, many of whom have gone above and beyond in great service to make sure it continues to be the land of the free and the home of the brave.

As we once again celebrate the men and women who served with honor and distinction on this Veterans Day, I feel it's an appropriate time to discuss some of Maine's truly finest — the state's soldiers who have earned America’s highest recognition, the Medal of Honor.

Maine has a Rich Military History

According to the Medal of Honor Historical Society, 84 members of the military from Maine have been awarded, or posthumously awarded, this incredible honor. Considering how rare the award is — and how small this state is — that is quite an impressive number.

Maine's Medal of Honor list includes a few of the country’s greatest soldiers. The most famous is probably Joshua Chamberlain, who received his for his incredible courage and leadership while charging the enemy and holding strong at Gettysburg on July 2, 1863, during the American Civil War.

Another is Charles Loring Jr., a pilot who fought in the Korean War. Loring was on a bombing mission when his plane took damage from enemy fire. Instead of turning back to base, Loring proceeded with the mission and sacrificed himself to take out an entire enemy battery position. He was posthumously awarded the military’s highest medal, and Loring Air Force Base was later named in his honor.

While some of these soldiers are well-known, I’m sure you’ve never heard of the majority — and that’s okay. These heroes were never in it for glory. They simply wanted to make sure they had the backs of their brothers and sisters.

Where You Can Learn More About Maine's Medal of Honor Recipients

The Medal of Honor Historical Society and Maine.gov are both great reference guides to explore. You can find a lot of information about Maine’s most decorated soldiers. I encourage you to check both out so you can learn about the amazing and heroic stories of our Pine Tree State peers.

Thank you to all who have served and continue to serve this incredible country and the great state we get to call home.