“As Memorial Day approaches, I am honored to announce that my husband has been selected as the Deputy Director of Cemetery Operations for the American Battle Monuments Commission (ABMC) which tends the graves of our fallen soldiers worldwide.
I am immensely proud that our family will be a part this remarkably patriotic responsibility. The cemeteries like Normandy are a striking, somber reminder of the sacrifices made in order to uphold the freedoms of our country and preserve the freedoms of our allies. Some gave all…and we must never forget that freedom is not free.
ABMC is headquartered in Paris, France where we will move by the end of the year. However, we will maintain our home in St Pete Beach and return often to be with our beloved friends and community. When our time of service is done, we’ll return home.
I will continue to serve as Mayor for the remainder of the year. I look forward to working with the candidates that will seek your vote to be your next Mayor so that there will be a quality transition and exchange of knowledge. Being a Commissioner is a remarkable experience and I hope more people will raise their hand to help guide and protect our piece of paradise.
Thank you for the opportunity that you have given to me to be a part of this community in such a rewarding way.” – Mayor Maria Lowe
Words by Maria Lowe
Picture is of Maria on her first day. Photo by Bill Horne.