Fundraising efforts for a special plaque kicked off in Augusta Wednesday.

That plaque will hang in the State House to honor Maine's female veterans.

Meghan Hayward reports.

"I think these women who served in those capacities needed to be recognized for not only what they're doing for us now, but they've done for us in the past."

Come November, everyone who walks through the Hall of Flags in the Maine State House will see the memorial plaque in honor of female veterans.

"I'm very excited about the design. I think they've chosen four wonderful women that represent the state of Maine. They represent different periods of time and they represent different branches of the Armed Services. I think it's a plaque that all women veterans can come to the State House and be very proud of."

Staff Sgt. Annette Bachman, one of the women featured on the plaque, was at the ceremony.

"It's a big shock but I'm honored to do it."

Hannah Watts Weston represents the 18th Century, Emily Dana the 19th Century and Patricia Erickson the 20th Century.

Currently, 14 percent of females in the state of Maine make up the Armed Services.

"It's honoring to know that I'm one of the few and that I can represent all the women in Maine."

Lucille Greer served in World War Two. She happily made a donation for the memorial plaque.

She has fond memories of her time served.

"The big benefit as far as I'm concerned of being in the Armed Forces is the comradery that you get with other women."

A comradery that can be shared once the plaque is unveiled on Veteran's Day.

If you would like to make a donation checks can be sent to the Bureau of Veterans' Services, State House Station 117, Augusta, the zip is 04333-0117.

Checks should be made out to the Treasurer State of Maine.

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