AUGUSTA – World War II’s “Forgotten Theater of Operations,” the China-Burma-India Theater, has been largely overshadowed by history. Most Americans remember D-Day, the Battle of the Bulge, Guadalcanal and Iwo Jima.

But the thousands of soldiers, sailors and airmen who served in the China-Burma-India Theater performed valuable services, including direct combat with Merrill’s Marauders. Many divisions of Japanese troops were tied down in the CBI and killed by direct action as well.

Those who served in the CBI from 1942-46 have now been recognized, with the dedication on Sept. 30 of a monument on the Avenue of Flags at the Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery.

The monument is the culmination of a fund drive by the Pine Tree Basha to have a permanent memorial as the members who served slowly dwindle.

Local veterans attending were Lionel Castonguay, Roy Nickerson, Winston Greaton, Harold Griffith, Robert Witham, Norm Nickerson, Fernand Potvin and associate member John Griffin. Spouses and families attended as well. Griffin acted as Master of Ceremonies.

The group was reminded that historical artifacts are to be preserved, and donations to the Maine Military Museum were encouraged. The museum was represented by Ron Roussel.

Anyone interested in learning more about the history of the China-Burma-India Theater or having materials to donate to the museum should contact Griffin at 784-1800.