Education played a big role in Saturday’s Memorial Day ceremonies. In addition to the emphasis on the special flag raising, there was a uniformed soldier who attracted a lot of attention. That was Lance Brown, a Lewiston resident dressed in full World War II infantry combat gear, who walked among the crowd.

Brown had an extensive display of authentic WWII equipment in front of a pup tent. His collection included a grenade bag carried by his father throughout WWII and a Bible carried by an uncle.

In his combat gear, Brown looked like he had stepped out of a 1940s war film. He carried a replica Thompson submachine gun, bayonet, knife, pistol, canteen and knapsack. His personification was believable right down to the stub of a cigar, unlit, between his teeth as he talked.

Brown talked with many people, young and old, about his interest in re-enactment of the WWII period, which began when he lived in New Hampshire. He said he hopes to find others in the area who would like to join a re-enactment group.

One veteran had tears in his eyes as he talked with him, Brown said.

“He thanked me for bringing these things here,” Brown said. “I told him, ‘I do it to thank you.’ “

Brown added, “The great part about this is how you can educate the young people.”

Cost of re-enactment equipment can be upwards of $1,000 to start, he said.

Brown would like to find about six people to form a local group. He can be reached by e-mail at [email protected].