Two Houlton area heroes are to be honored

HOULTON, Maine — The American Red Cross-Pine Tree Chapter, WAGM TV, and Northern Maine Community College are pleased to announce their selection of the 2007 Real Heroes and Honorary Heroes for the 10th Annual Real Heroes Breakfast Thursday, Nov. 8 at 7:30 a.m. in the Edmunds Conference Center of Northern Maine Community College.     The heroes selected include those who have assisted others during an emergency situation or provided incredible assistance that made a difference in someone else’s life. These brave individuals were each nominated by the public and later selected by a group of community leaders because they went above and beyond the call of duty to exhibit a true act of selflessness, and their heroic acts embody the principles and ideals of the Red Cross’ humanitarian mission.
“We were so touched by the many heart-warming stories that came from this year’s nominees.” said Joyce Knorr, Aroostook County Branch manager of the Red Cross. “We have three heroes who are 18 years-old and under. This speaks volumes about the courage and willingness our young people take to help others in need.
“Each one of the awardees reflects the humanitarianism of those who have made the American Red Cross the outstanding organization that it is today,” she said. “We are proud to honor such great individuals.”
Local recipients include SSgt. Harold Maker of Houlton and members of the Houlton High School Sports Booster Club.
SSgt. Maker serves in the Maine Army National Guard and leads a group of soldiers who ensure that those who have selflessly served the country and gave their lives for our freedom are given all the honor and respect they deserve. As the Noncommissioned Officer in Charge, he goes beyond the call of duty to escort fallen soldiers from Boston’s Logan International Airport to their final resting place in Northern Maine and follows up with loved ones in making sure they are cared for.
Selected as an Honorary Hero is the Booster Club. When a fellow student, who by doctors’ orders, needed an AED (automated external defibrillator) the club raised the funds to purchase the machine that allowed the student to even play at away games. Now the machine is available, if needed, for other students or fans at all games and school activities.
Other Aroostook County heroes includes Brenda Munn, Caribou; the Founders of Caribou Pet Rescue,-Norma Milton, Connie Tucker, and Caprice Miller; 7-year old Noah Garrison; Sam, the Dog, Stockholm; Gregory Collagan, Eagle Lake; and 14 year-old Charles Mancib.
The 2007 Aroostook County Real Heroes was determined by a Selection Committee chaired by Penny Kern, along with committee members Brian Massey, Cathy Martin, Jason Parent, Vern Ouellette, Kelly Landeen, Steve Corbin, Peggy Bugbee, and Ruth Kern-Doherty.
Community and business members are invited to celebrate the heroism of these local individuals, while at the same time supporting the local disaster relief and preparedness efforts of the Aroostook County Branch of the American Red Cross.
Sponsorships are available at various recognition levels. Individual tickets can be purchased for $25 per person. For more information or to purchase tickets, please call 762-5671 or stop by the Red Cross office at 141 State Street.
The Chapter is a non-profit, humanitarian organization, which provides services for the residents of Aroostook County. All Red Cross disaster assistance is free and made possible by voluntary donations of time and money from Aroostook County people. For more information on disaster preparedness, health and safety classes, volunteer opportunities, and financial contributions, contact our office at knorrj@pintree.redcross.org or call 762-5671.