Bellmorites mark Memorial Day

Folks from throughout the Bellmores came out in droves on a sunny Monday morning to remember those who died in service to their country at the community’s annual Memorial Day parade.

Four veterans’ organizations sponsored the May 26 procession, including North Bellmore American Legion Post 1749, Bellmore American Legion Post 948, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2770 and the Vietnam War Veterans Association. Members of the groups took part in the parade and helped organize memorial services at two local monuments in honor of fallen military personnel.

Frank Colon, adjutant for North Bellmore’s legion, said the ceremonies were well attended. As a member of the parade’s planning committee, he also said he was grateful to the veterans, students and community leaders who took part in the march.

Ed Williamson, a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps and member of Bellmore American Legion Post 948, served as the parade grand marshal. Williamson led the procession, which began in central Bellmore.

Before the parade, a memorial service was held at 9 a.m. at the veterans’ monument near Bedford Avenue and Broadway. After the ceremony, marchers headed north on Bedford, waving to dozens of onlookers holding American flags.

The parade route continued onto Oak Street, Bellmore Avenue and Newbridge Road before ending at Newbridge Road Elementary School, the site of the second memorial service. The North Bellmore ceremony began at 11 a.m. at the monument in front of the school.