AUBURN — As part of his administration’s ongoing effort to thank and assist Maine’s service members, veterans and their families, Gov. Paul LePage proclaimed Feb. 25 as “Maine Veterans Stand Up and Be Counted Day.”

The American Legion William J. Rogers Post 153 responded and opened its doors from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and provided assistance to veterans who may qualify for health care benefits, educational, burial, memorial or other services.

“There are approximately 140,000 veterans in Maine who served and sacrificed a great deal to protect our freedoms and too few have applied for benefits,” said Commander Hugh Brown.

“It is estimated that only 30 percent of retired military personnel have applied for the veteran’s benefits provided by the state and federal government. In the case of Maine’s roughly 10,000 women who have served, the numbers are more discouraging — with just 10 percent having applied,” said Dan St. Pierre, service officer. “With regard to state and federal educational benefits available to Maine veterans, it is estimated that only 2 percent have applied and that’s why events like these are of high priority.”

Jerry DeWitt was instrumental in organizing “Maine Veterans Stand Up and Be Counted Day.” DeWitt had notified all Veterans of Foreign Wars, American Legion and Disabled American Veterans posts and encouraged them to assist veterans and their families by reminding them that educational benefits and other assistance may be available.

“Twenty-nine veterans came to the William J. Rogers post and they varied from serving in World War II to today’s present conflicts. If all other locations received the same turnout, we reached a lot of veterans today,” said public relations officer Paul Bernard.

Bernard also said, “Don’t be discouraged if you were unable to make it. You can still contact Maine’s Bureau of Veterans’ Services to learn more. Information is available at www.maine.gov/dvem/bvs, by email to [email protected] or by calling 430-6035.”

Anyone interested in membership to the American Legion can contact Commander Hugh Brown at 782-1118.