From the Bunkers: Remembering Babe

I first met Babe Caron some 50 years ago. At that time, he was stationed at the Presque Isle Air Base as a member of the U.S. Air Force. He was also a professional boxer who was acquiring a reputation as a pretty good welterweight with a good left hook.
    Benny Shapiro of Caribou was a part-time promoter and arranged for Babe, who at the time was fighting under the name of Babe McCarron, to fight for the Maine Welterweight championship. It was staged at the Caribou Armory and I was asked to do the radio broadcast on WAGM. Never having done a boxing match before, I reluctantly agreed.
Those who knew Babe, also knew, that he did not present the ideal physique for the sport, but he had an inner fire and that good left hand. His opponent, a fellow named Wright from Belfast, had all the appearances of a good fighter. He was two inches taller than Babe and very muscular. When he came into the ring, I said to myself, this is no contest. This guy will destroy Babe.
Out they came … bang … out when Wright, as Babe caught him with a left hook just below the rib cage. Wright went down gasping for breath and it was all over. Babe McCarron was the middleweight champion of Maine.
Babe also loved golf and became a pretty fair professional on the Maine pro level. He wasn’t a big hitter, but had a great short game and touch around the green.
One of the more enjoyable weekends of golf was one September when Babe and I drove to Remouski, Que. with Jay Dolan, one of New England’s top pros, for their annual Pro-Am Tournament. Jay won it, but Babe and I earned expenses with a deck of cards, as Jay handed over some of his winnings.
As you all know, Babe came to the Houlton Community golf course many years ago and became a fixture living at the clubhouse, working on the course and in the pro shop, while giving lessons. His weekly foursome of Ray Mailman, Rick Goodwin and Kevin McPhee inspired many stories.
Babe also wintered as a pro in beautiful Myrtle Beach. Last fall, he left Houlton for the last time, as we were all shocked to hear of his passing. This Memorial Day, there will be a service at the Houlton Community golf course to honor a guy I was proud to call a friend.
There isn’t much news yet from activity as the weather hasn’t cooperated except the rain is great for future conditions of the course.
Ladies opening banquet is Tuesday, May 24, at the Horn of Plenty. Social hour begins at 5:30 p.m. and dinner at 6:30 p.m. Call to reserve your spot by Thursday, May 19, at 532-2662 or 532-7549. All lady golfers or potential golfers are invited.
Seasonal team play begins June 7. This is a great opportunity for ladies who have never played to ask any questions they may have and enjoy the camaraderie of golfers.