Barbara and Brian Donovan, of Massachusetts, Visiting the Loring Memorial Park on Munjoy Hill, Today.

Multiple Flags Placed by the Loring Family at the Loring Park Were Flying in a Light Wind, Sunny Skies and mid-70 Temperatures Today, November 11, 2022.  The Annual Tribute to All Veterans Was Held at 1:00 pm at Loring Memorial Park, Once known as “CB” Circle.

“Today, we pause to honor the dedication and sacrifice of those who have served Maine and the nation in the US Armed Forces, from the 20th Maine’s valiant defense at Little Round Top to the Maine National Guardsmen and women who will deploy around the world next year, Maine people have always stepped up to serve when our nation has called upon them. On Veterans Day, we express our gratitude to all those who have served and recommit to stand by them, just as they have stood by us,” said Governor Janet T. Mills (D) in a statement issued today in recognition of Veterans Day, November 11, 2022.

Visting the Loring Memorial Park on Munjoy HIll were Barbara and Brian Donovan, of Massachusetts.  They were out for a walk in the sunny, mid-70 degree weather along the Eastern Promenade when they discovered the Park.    Barbara’s uncle, Harold Laplante, was a paratrooper in the 82nd Army Airborn who served in World War 11 she recalled at the Park.  He was dropped behind enemy lines on D Day on Normandy Beach, France.  But due to confusion during the “drop,” paratroopers were scattered all over the area according to Brian Donovan, husband of Barbara.  “There was too much anti-aircraft fire coming in,” Brian said of the fateful landing.

Laplante was the second oldest of nineteen (19) children from Hampton, Massachusetts.  He was 21 years old and was known to be a handsome and personable young man according to Brian.  Barbara said she never knew him, but knew of him.  Laplante is buried at the Normandy American Beach Cemetery and Memorial.

Barbara and Brian Donovan are visiting their daughter Lauren a resident of Munjoy Hill.  A second daughter is in the US military.

For more on the life of Major Charles J Loring, Jr., please visit post herein dated November 11, 2021, “Veterans Day Important to Major Charles J. Loring, Jr. Family.”