Pentagon honors Hermon couple

HERMON – A local couple was honored at the Pentagon last week for their patriotism and commitment to members of the military.

Harry and Sharon Rideout accepted the Zachary and Elizabeth Fisher Distinguished Civilian Humanitarian Award last Thursday for their lifelong efforts to aid military personnel.

Zachary and Elizabeth Fisher founded the Fisher Houses, which provide lodging near major medical centers for recovering military personnel and their families, free of charge.

All three branches of the U.S. military nominated candidates, but the Rideouts received the award last week because of their numerous efforts throughout the country.

The Rideouts were instrumental in organizing the Maine Troop Greeters, who welcome troops to Bangor International Airport as they are either leaving or returning from deployment overseas. On Wednesday, the group celebrated the 2,000th flight it has greeted as it passed through BIA.

The husband and wife also organized cleanup of a Glenburn soldier’s home after it burned to the ground. Family members were not at home when the fire occurred because they were traveling to meet the soldier out of state. He had just returned from deployment.

The two also traveled to the Togus Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Augusta and distributed 120 flannel shirts to the veterans over the Christmas holiday.

“Your selfless contribution of time and energy in support of the men and women of our Armed Forces, our most precious resource, is greatly appreciated,” the congratulatory letter sent from the Pentagon said.

Despite the couple’s numerous labors, Harry Rideout said the most important gesture anyone can do to support the military is simply to thank them for their service.

“Do I think we’ve made a difference?” Harry Rideout asked rhetorically. “If you could see the military people in Texas that I said ‘thank you for your service’ to, I think you’d agree we make a difference.”

In addition to approaching service members around the nation and expressing their appreciation, the Rideouts hand out literature to military personnel, especially about family support.

“We were just overwhelmed, humbled and grateful,” Sharon Rideout said.