First Lady LePage Recognized by Association of the United States Army as Maine's Person of the Year

Augusta, Maine - Recognized for her involvement in bettering the lives of military families, First Lady Ann LePage was honored today as the 2012 Maine Person of the Year by the Association of the United States Army (AUSA). This is AUSA's 17th year of hosting this gathering as a way to thank Army soldiers and their families. The event was held at the Rhumbline Motel in Kennebunkport Friday evening.

The annual award honoree is chosen by the executive board of the AUSA, Joshua Chamberlain Chapter for Military Appreciation. The criteria are dedication, generosity, benevolence, integrity and unconditional commitment to the men and women of the US Army as well as all military families of all branches.

"This is an incredible honor and I accept the award on behalf of every Maine military family," said Mrs. LePage. "We owe our men and women in uniform and their families a debt of gratitude for all that they do for our State and Nation," she added.

First Lady LePage is a passionate advocate for service members and their families in Maine and has participated in hundreds of events to support troops and their families. Last year, she joined the Patriot Guard Riders and the Worcester Wreath Company to deliver wreaths donated by Worcester Wreath to Arlington National Cemetery in Washington, D.C. The First Lady also holds regular events at the Blaine House for Maine's military members and their families, including a "back to school" ice cream social in late August.

"It was a unanimous decision to recognize First Lady LePage as the person of the year," said AUSA Joshua Chamberlain Chapter President, Cindi Piacitelli. "She embodies each of the criteria for this honor, and we are very impressed with the work she is doing for Maine's service members."

Since 1950, with 125 all-volunteer chapters located worldwide, AUSA works to support every aspect of national security while advancing the interests of America's Army and the men and women who serve. The organization represents every American Soldier by being the voice for all components of the Army, fostering public support of the Army's role in national security and providing professional education and information programs.

The Joshua Chamberlain Maine Chapter, established 25 years ago, supports Maine Soldiers: Active Duty, National Guard, Reserve, Civilians, Retirees, Government Civilians, Wounded Warriors, Veterans and family members.