New decals personalize veterans’ license plates

AUGUSTA – Beginning Nov. 5, Maine veterans will have the option of placing a decal on their veterans’ license plate that recognizes their contribution to a particular branch of the armed services; their participation in certain conflicts, or their receipt of an award for bravery or valor.

“These decals are an excellent addition to our current selection of vehicle registration plates,” said Secretary of State Dan Gwadosky on Thursday. “The decals will provide a more distinctive look to the current veterans’ license plate, while allowing veterans to display a special symbol of their service to their country.”

The Legislature authorized the Maine Veterans Commemorative Decal Program during the last legislative session. The Bureau of Motor Vehicles is making the decals available in time for Veterans Day. Decals may be obtained at the 13 BMV branch offices.

A legislatively appointed task force established 22 decals for display with the veterans’ plates. Five decals depict the seal of each branch of the armed services. Also available are decals that represent 10 individual awards for bravery, including the Bronze Star or higher, and seven campaign medals awarded for service in a hostile fire zone.

To request the decals, a veteran who already has veterans’ plates may bring a copy of their report of separation or discharge from active duty to verify eligibility. The decals may be used only with the veterans’ license plate bearing a red “V.” The decals have been designed to be placed over the “V.” Each set of decals is $2.

This is an optional program and the current veterans’ license plate with the red “V” will still be valid without a decal.

The Legislature previously has authorized license plates for recipients of the Purple Heart and the Medal of Honor, as well as for former prisoners of war, Pearl Harbor survivors and disabled veterans. These will continue to be available to veterans.