Written with Leslie Dupuis, Editor
The Wreaths Across America convoy visited Gorham High School (GHS) on December 9 for a special presentation in honor of School Resource Officer Wayne “Pooch” Drown who made the trek to Arlington last December with other members of the Gorham Police Department. Drown passed away unexpectedly earlier this year.
While the presentation at GHS was a closed event for students and special guests, members of the community were invited to participate by observing the convoy along South Street as it arrived and again when it left Gorham High School along Narragansett Street. Many could be seen watching along the route.
According to its website, “Each December on National Wreaths Across America Day, the mission to Remember, Honor and Teach is carried out by coordinating wreath-laying ceremonies at Arlington National Cemetery, as well as at more than 1,600 additional locations in all 50 U.S. states, at sea and abroad.” This event was kicked off by the Wreaths of America convoy which began at the West Quoddy Headlight in Lubec, Maine on December 7. It will arrive in Arlington on December 14.
Photo credit Roger MarchandA special ceremony at Gorham High School earlier this week honored one Gold Star family, eight veterans from World War II and the Korean Conflict, as well as Officer Wayne “Pooch” Drown.
During the ceremony at Gorham High School, eight Gorham veterans from World War II and the Korean Conflict were honored along with the family of Sgt. Joel A. House, who was killed in combat on June 23, 2007, while serving in the U.S. Army.
Those honored with wreaths were Master Sgt. Blanche Kelley, Commander John B. Alden, Private First Class Frederick Bliss, Yeoman Seaman First Class Kenneth Brann, Airman First Class Jack Farrar, Gunnery Sergeant James Hughes, Seaman First Class Gunnery Mate Oland Morton, and Private First Class Rifleman Robert “Bob” Mountain. Each recipient’s accomplishments during their time in the military was shared before the presentation of their wreath.
GHS senior Abby O’Brien spoke on behalf of the student body to honor former School Resource Officer Wayne “Pooch” Drown, who worked to bring Wreaths Across America to Gorham before his untimely death earlier this year. His wife and family were presented with a wreath.
Former and present members of the military, as well as first responders and the police, were also honored for all they do for the community.