LEWISTON — The Dolard and Priscilla Gendron Franco Center partnered with the Travis Mills Foundation to put on a benefit concert for Memorial Day on Saturday at the Franco Center.
Saturday’s concert was opened by a group performance of the Star-Spangled Banner, followed by Laurie Sidelinger’s touching rendition of “White Cliffs of Dover.”
Sidelinger, chairperson for Honor Flight Maine, also spoke about her foundation, which makes it possible for many veterans to see their memorials across the country.
She said it is important to remember those who we have lost, but also important to “honor, cherish, and remember those who are still with us.”
The Travis Mills Foundation does just that, with the driving force of retired U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Travis Mills of the 82nd Airborne.
Mills lost portions of both arms and legs from an IED in April 2012, and now dedicates his life to helping other veterans and amputees.
Brandy Mills Cain of the Travis Mills Foundation spoke about their new retreat in Belgrade Lakes, which will open in June. They are able to assist veterans and their families, thanks to donations and fundraisers, like the benefit concert Saturday night.
Cain said they will host 56 families this summer.
To learn more about Travis Mills and his foundation, you can watch his documentary, “Travis: A Soldier’s Story,” on Netflix.
The benefit concert Saturday night featured performances from local artists including Melissa Stevens, Olivia Botting, Andi Dolci, Hayden Stevens, Jay Barrett and Miss Maine Outstanding Teen Maddy Leslie.
They performed emotional and fitting ballads for Memorial Day such as “God Bless America,” and “America the Beautiful.”
Franco Center Director Mitch Thomas accompanied on the piano with Jeff Mayerson on drums.
During a break in the performances, the names of all 82 Maine veterans who have given their lives since September 11, 2001, were read aloud.
Mitch Thomas also shared with attendees ideas of how to spend Memorial Day on Monday, including sending a note of thanks to any veteran you know, and to those who have lost loved ones, flying your flag at half mast until noon and participating in the National Moment of Remembrance at 3 p.m.
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