VFW Bagley-Gardiner-Foster Post #9 honored with Legislative Sentiment

Ted Smith, Rep. Grant, Debra Couture, Sen. Bellows and Greg Couture

The Maine Legislature honored the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States Bagley-Gardiner-Foster Post #9, located in Gardiner, with a Legislative Sentiment on March 22 in honor of its upcoming 100 year anniversary, which will be celebrated on April 8.

“Members of VFW Post #9 have been active in their community and helping fellow veterans for a century now,” said Sen. Shenna Bellows, D-Manchester. “Honoring this history of selflessness is humbling. I know I speak for many when I say I’m forever grateful for their service to our country and our local community.”

Post officials who were present in the State Senate to receive the Legislative Sentiment were Senior Vice Commander Debra Couture, Adjutant and Quartermaster Greg Couture and Surgeon Ted Smith. They joined Sen. Bellows and Rep. Gay Grant, D-Gardiner, for a photo that morning.

The Post was first chartered at the National Soldiers Home, Maine, which is known today as the Togus VA Hospital. Post #9 is the oldest Post in the State and then ninth oldest in the country.

A Legislative Sentiment is a significant expression by the Legislature in recognition of civic and public achievements.