AUGUSTA — Mourners gathered in Augusta Saturday to honor the fallen Maine Department of Transportation employees James Brown and Dwayne Campbell, who were killed after being struck by a vehicle on Interstate 95 in Waterville last month.
“They stood out at work, they stood out at home, they stood out as family men,” said Dale Doughty, Maine DOT commissioner.
The Maine DOT held a memorial procession and ceremony in their memory, with departments from across New England showing up to pay respects.
Work vehicles made their way south along I-95 before coming to rest at the Augusta Civic Center to hear from speakers.
Following a musical prelude from the Maine State Police Pipe and Drum Corps, Maine Army National Guard Chaplain, Colonel Earl Weigelt, led the group in prayer.
“May all those who travel our roadways not take for granted those who endeavor to maintain our corridors and bridges, putting their lives on the line every day for us,” said Weigelt.
During the ceremony, speakers emphasized the important work that the two men did every day as MDOT employees.
“Today is about honoring and recognizing what Dwayne and Jimmy did for you and your families, your neighbors,” said Doughty.
Governor Janet Mills was one of several speakers who took to the podium. During her speech, she highlighted the qualities of the two men.
“I learned a little something about Jimmy and Dwayne through their friends and family. Dwayne loved his daughters, and he loved spending time outdoors,” said Mills. “Jimmy was happy to be outside with his kids too… he also loved cars.”
She went on to talk about what Brown and Campbell meant to the people in their lives.
“Dwayne and Jimmy’s friends, family and coworkers say they were both good friends and good guys,” said Mills. “If there was work to be done, their vehicles were at the shed. And you knew if you needed something done, you could call them and they would be there.”
Several speakers also took the time to emphasize how important it is for motorists to slow down on the road and when driving through work zones.
“In the past, we’ve had Work Zone Awareness Week every year, and yes we do it, and some of our close partners work together,” Doughty said to a gaggle of reporters following the ceremony. “I really think it’s time, and we have a meeting coming up in April, where we pull all agencies and all companies that work in the right of way. Contractors, utilities, everyone… to start to talk about that message.”
“Next time you’re in a work zone on the interstate, just slow down and try to do the speed limit that’s posted, and you’ll see why we have to get this message out very clearly,” he added.
During the ceremony, Maine State Senator Tim Nangle and Maine State Representative Lydia Crafts presented a legislative memoriam to the families of Brown and Campbell.
“Be it resolved that we, the members of the Senate and House of Representatives, pause in a moment of understanding and prayer, to inscribe this token of sympathy and condolence to all who share this great loss,” said Crafts.
Mills closed out her speech by looking to the future, and emphasizing the importance of remembrance.
“I know that Jimmy and Dwayne will be missed every day,” said Mills. “But I hope that someday their memories will bring more joy than sadness.”