AUGUSTA — Love the U.S. Navy Reserve? If you do, and want to show your support for the 100th anniversary of the creation of the reserve and those who served, there’s a way to do both.
The commemorative license plate celebrating the U.S. Navy Reserve centennial is still available for purchase at all Bureau of Motor Vehicle offices.
Each plate purchase not only commemorates the 100th anniversary of the U.S. Navy Reserves, but helps to support the Maine Military Family Relief Fund, said Kristen Muszynski, spokeswoman for the Secretary of State’s office.
According to Muszynski, $10 of every $15 plate purchase goes to the fund, which provides emergency loans and grants to members of the Maine National Guard, Reserves or Armed Forces and their families, as well as to statewide nonprofit organizations that aid service members.
Legislation to create the U.S. Navy Reserve centennial plate was submitted by state Sen. Ronald Collins, R-Wells, and approved by the Legislature on July 4, 2015. The commemorative plate, outlined with a golden rope design, features a “100” with a golden anchor, the Maine state seal and U.S. Navy Reserve seal.
Muszynski said a commemorative license plate does not contain numbers and letters. The commemorative plate may be displayed in place of the front registration plate of the vehicle until it expires on March 3. The existing registration plate on the back of the vehicle must remain visible.
Muszynski said the commemorative plate will be sold as a keepsake after March 3, with the funds continuing to support the Maine Military Family Fund.
“Maine’s maritime history and strong heritage in the services of the defense of our nation are just the most basic reasons of why we’re proud to issue this commemorative plate,” said Secretary of State Matthew Dunlap. The commemorative plate was first issued in September.
“Our state’s heritage is steeped in maritime history,” Collins said at the September unveiling. “On the roads of Maine, (this plate) will serve as a constant reminder of the sacrifices made by members of the Navy Reserves.”
— Senior Staff Writer Tammy Wells can be contacted at 282-1535, ext. 327 or twells@journaltribune.com.
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