East Meadow commemorates Memorial Day

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Town of Hempstead Councilman Gary Hudes, who represents East Meadow, also said he was glad to see such a large turnout for the event. “Our soldiers are the reason we can live our lives the way we want and we take that for granted way too often,” said Hudes. “These men and women are the reason we are able to do what we choose to do any day of the week. This is what Memorial Day is all about.”

Assemblyman and East Meadow native Tom McKevitt, added, “I want to thank everyone who came here today. We must never forget their sacrifice.”

Dolores Rome, the president of the East Meadow Chamber of Commerce and a co-organizer of the parade, said that the annual tribute represents a great time for the community to bring soldiers — past and present — to the top of their minds. “We gather here to renew our pledge to ensure the sacrifice of our servicemen and women are honored and remembered,” Rome said.

Following the speeches, Sal Pellegrino, the commander of the VFW, led community members in placing wreaths in the veterans’ memorial. The crowd stood silently and watched as the American flag was raised, and then joined together for a rendition of “God Bless America.”

Elizabeth Fries, who also co-organized the parade, said that while the parade and service was an extravagant planning effort, it is one of the most important events of the year. “The turnout was very good this year,” she said. “It’s a really great event to give tribute to our veterans.”

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