Between the pomp and fanfare of this year’s parade, residents and officials in Topsham and Brunswick paid tribute to those who served their country in World War II and all conflicts during Monday’s Memorial Day observances.

The day commemorated the 70th anniversary of D-Day, the Allied invasion of Normandy, one of the bloodiest conflicts and a turning point of World War II.

“That victory certainly did not come without sacrifice,” said Gov. Paul LePage, speaking during observances in Brunswick following Monday’s parade.

It is the sacrifices of America’s veterans that is the reason he and his family have worked to support veterans of past, present and future conflicts, LePage said.

“Study history — don’t repeat it,” LePage said, addressing the younger generation. “We are only one Hitler away from complete annihilation.”

Master of ceremonies James Oikle said that the day honored all who served.

“May we always remember their sacrifice, and continue the dreams they died for,” said Mark Rockwood of the Berean Baptist Church, during his invocation.

“Freedom is the gift purchased at the highest possible price,” said Sen. Susan Collins, whose father received a Purple Heart during World War II.

Collins noted that family members of those who had fallen still carry a burden. Memorial Day was a day to remind those family members that they “don’t bear that terrible burden alone.”

“This day is sacred,” said Marty Diller, commander of American Legion Post 20, during a wreath-laying ceremony after the observance.

Diller said he hoped the day would deepen the resolve to respect and remember the nation’s veterans, and to “emphasize the duty of patriotism.”

jswinconeck@timesrecord.com