AUGUSTA – Gov. John E. Baldacci presented state Silver Star Honorable Service Medals to 15 veterans in a recent Hall of Flags ceremony.

The medals were first awarded in 2006 to Maine veterans who have been wounded while serving their country.

“You’ve given us a wonderful example. You’ve given us a role model and a standard to adhere to, to rise to and to try to strive for, and I thank you for that,” Baldacci said. “It’s an inspiration to the troops who are now serving to live up to, and try to exceed the standards that our greatest generation has laid for us.”

Baldacci was joined by Maine Adjutant General John W. Libby and Director of Veterans Services Peter Ogden in awarding the medals.

“We, the general, myself, your friends and family, are all here to thank you for what you have given for your country,” Baldacci said. “You know all too well the meaning of sacrifice and service.”

Since August of 2006, 36 Gold Star Medals and 123 Silver Star Medals have been presented to Maine veterans.

Those recognized during the ceremony were:

World War II veterans: Raymond J. Cyr, Lewiston; Ernest A. Henderson, Winthrop; Romeo A. Huppe, Lewiston; Bertrand E. LaFrance, Lewiston; Leroy W. Linnell, South Paris; Louis P. Pare, Brewer; Rosaire Poulin, Augusta; Raymond E. Reitze, Buxton; Joseph R. Woodward, York.

Vietnam veterans: Gary K. Brooks, Turner; Robert A. Darveau Jr., Levant; Carl R. Douglass, Hebron; Wayne H. Elkins, Winslow; Leon S. Gallant, Morrill; Peter B. Sargent, New Gloucester.

In addition, 15 other veterans injured in combat were not present at the State House for the event. To find out more on the criteria for the medals and a complete report of the event, log on to www.maineamericanlegion.com.