AUGUSTA — The Maine Bureau of Veterans’ Services (MBVS) is seeking a Maine artist to design an “Honorable Service Coin” recognizing the military service of post-Vietnam War and peacetime veterans. Coins honoring the service of World War II, Korean War, Vietnam War and women veterans have been previously commissioned. Plaques of those coins now hang in the Hall of Flags at the State Capitol, as will the final design of the Honorable Service Coin.
“No matter when or where they served, a veteran is someone who has expressed their willingness to pay the ultimate sacrifice for our nation. That deserves recognition,” stated Adria Horn, director of the Maine Bureau of Veterans’ Services. “The Honorable Service Coin will be a symbol of that recognition and the eternal gratitude of Maine and its citizens for all who have worn the uniform.”
According to the official request for proposals (RFP), interested artists are challenged to create a design that is unique to Maine and relevant to all of Maine’s veterans. All artists must be taxpaying residents of the State of Maine and must articulate their connection to Maine veterans in their proposal. The project is open to all artists age 18 and over, regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, age, military status, sexual orientation, marital status or physical disabilities. Artist teams are eligible to apply, including teams of artists from multiple disciplines. Students at any level are ineligible.
The submission deadline is by 5 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 25.
Refer to the RFP for more information on submission requirements. For questions about the Honorable Service Coin and Plaque program, contact David Richmond, deputy director at the Maine Bureau of Veterans’ Services, at David.A.Richmond@maine.gov. All other questions should be directed to Diamond Duryea, public art consultant, at dia8788@hotmail.com or 207-239-1069.
Vietnam War coin replica plaque on display in Maine Capitol.
World War II coin replica plaque hangs in the Hall of Flags in Augusta.
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