Honoring those who served and support veterans

At the intersection of Doughty Boulevard and Mott Avenue in Inwood members of Pfc. John Oliveri Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1582, family and friends came together for a brief but fitting ceremony on the 11th day of the 11th month at the 11th hour that first commemorated the end of World War I as Armistice Day, and now as Veterans Day celebrates all military service people.

Frank Santora, the commander of Post 1582, read a statement that encapsulated the ideas of what Veterans Day means ranging from allowing soldiers and former soldiers to “live with dignity and respect” and that “it is a day for all Americans, not just soldiers” and for “cherishing our many freedoms.”

Post Quartermaster Luke Magliaro Jr., who also serves as the vice commander for all Nassau County veterans posts, presented certificates to Santora’s granddaughters, Dina Ottoson and Emma Pearsall, both 10, and Sara Pearsall, a sophomore at Carey High School, for their volunteer efforts selling poppy pins prior to Memorial Day. Jenny Zarro, an adult volunteer, didn’t attend, but was also recognized.

Magliaro recounted a conversation with Cedarhurst Mayor Benjamin Weinstock, who asked if the American flag was flown at half-mast on Veterans Day as it is on Memorial Day. “I said it isn’t because Veterans Day is a celebration of all our brothers and sisters who served and those who are serving now,” Magliaro said.