A Washington County businessman and nearly two dozen World War II veterans were honored today at a State House ceremony.

The Maine Veterans Service Organizations commissioned a portrait of Worcester as appreciation for his efforts at providing wreaths for veterans' tombstones. He began the Arlington Wreath Project in 1992 and the Wreaths Across America project in 2006. Last December there were more than 286 participating locations in Wreaths Across America.

The portrait of Worcester was painted by Bangor artist Normand Martin.

In addition to the portrait unveiling, Gov. John Baldacci recognized veterans who were Prisoners of War or had received the Purple Heart with the Maine Silver Star Honorable Service Medal.

"You are a proud legacy of service, and know all too well the meaning of sacrifice," Baldacci said. "We honor you and your commitment today with these medals. The men and women who serve in the military are all heroes."

A list of the World War II veterans recognized today follows:

POWs: Ralph S. Burckes, Thomaston, Army Air Corps ; Emilien A. Levesque, Farmingdale, Army; Frank E. Sidelinger, Damariscotta, Army.           

Purple Heart Recipients: Leslie D. Ames, South China, Army; Philip A. Collins, Gardiner, Marine Corps;  Warren G. Enos, Livermore, Army; Hubert B. Goggin, Pittston, Army; Ernest O. Jones, Brunswick, Army; Rolland O. Madore, Lewiston, Marine Corps; Austin L. Priest, Greene, Army; Robert F. Russell, Augusta, Army AC; Joseph R. Sciaraffa, Rumford, Marine Corps; William A. Shea, Randolph, Army; Erland N. Tucker, Poland, Army;  Robert E. Warner, Vassalboro, Army; and Richard S. Weeks, Randolph, Marine Corps.      

The following individuals were honored, but were unable to be at the State House in person:

POWs: Alvin C. Flint, Harrison, Army; Ernest A. Henderson, Winthrop, Army AC; Harry I. Scott, Winthrop, Army; and John H. Tourtillotte, Boothbay Harbor, Army.                           

Purple Heart Recipients: Roland J. Boucher, Sidney, Marine; Clifton L. Glidden, Vassalboro, Army; Elmore E. Morgan, West Gardiner, Army.