Silver Star awarded in Sherman

By Elna Seabrooks
Staff Writer
    SHERMAN — The location was Sherman’s Rec Center, but family, friends and guests came from as far away as Houlton, Stacyville, Hampden, Northport and beyond for a ceremony to honor veterans.
Houlton Pioneer Times Photo/Elna Seabrooks
A HERO REMEMBERED — Cpl. Alberto “Freddie” Lilley accepted the Maine Silver Star during a Veterans Day ceremony in Sherman on Sunday for his heroism under fire in Korea. Wife Sylvia, left, said he didn’t talk about his wartime service for years. Command Sgt. Mjr. Steve Curtis of Stacyville, right, recalled Lilley’s modesty and heroism in an emotional speech during a surprise presentation.
    And, there was one in particular — Cpl. Alberto F. Lilley, a Korean War vet — who would be the center of attention for the valorous service and courage that landed him in Walter Reed Army Hospital in 1952 for six months to recover from wounds sustained under enemy fire. He was a private first class in North Korea who earned the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart. He was later promoted to corporal.
    Affectionately known as “Freddie,” Lilley was unaware that he would receive the Maine Silver Star because, as his youngest daughter, Eva Lilley, said, “he never would have shown up.”
    Allison Roy, Dist. 2 president of the VFW ladies auxiliary, said she let the family know about the prestigious award and asked others to keep the secret. “I was surprised that it worked with so many people knowing about it.” Nearly 300 men, women and children showed up for the beginning of Veterans Day week at the Sherman Rec where certificates of appreciation were presented to all veterans.
Houlton Pioneer Times Photo/Elna Seabrooks
TABLE FOR ONE — This poignant reminder of the country’s debt to veterans is the little known tribute to POWs and MIAs who cannot participate in ceremonies such as the one in Sherman last Sunday. It started nearly 30 years ago. Special significance is  placed on each item on the table such at the lemon for the bitter fate of the missing and a pinch of salt representing tears shed by family and friends.
    When Lilley’s service number was called, Jane Poulin of the Ladies Auxiliary, escorted him to the podium. There Command Sgt. Mjr. Steve Curtis of Stacyville, in an emotional speech, spoke of Lilley with affection and respect as a friend, neighbor and hero.
    Lilley said he was “quite surprised and he appreciated it very much.” His wife, Sylvia, said “he was deserving but never talked about [his war experience] for years.” Daughter Eva said it was the first time she heard the whole story. “Growing up as children we never discussed it. He’s very modest.”
    Brig. Gen. Brent Boyles said “the Maine Silver Star is an honor bestowed on very few — only those who have demonstrated special service to the country.”
    There were many expressions of appreciation, awards, even caps presented to Lilley for his wartime service. Not lost on the gathering was the contribution of all veterans who were asked to stand for recognition.
Houlton Pioneer Times Photo/Elna Seabrooks
THANK YOU VETERANS — Certificates of appreciation were awarded to all veterans at the ceremony in Sherman last Sunday. From left, John Cummings of Stacyville, his great-uncle Gerald Cummings of Stacyville and Bill Albert of Benedicta were among the many veterans present.
    A combined children’s and community choir led the assembled guests in patriotic songs at several points during the ceremony as the American Legion Post 47 color guard stood at arms.
    Paul Graham, a Vietnam-era vet, traveled from Houlton with members of the United Vets Motorcycle Club. He said it was important to be there because “Lilley is one of our brothers. And, honoring our vets is very important.” Colleen Guiggey, president of the Ladies Auxiliary, said “if it weren’t for our vets, we wouldn’t be here today.”
    Rep. Henry Joy (D-Crystal) said: “When anybody joins the military, they write a blank check to the United States of America that they pay through service including their life.”