Law and Order Night at the post

Military veterans and first responders gathered at the American Legion Post 303 on Oct. 21 to celebrate the post’s annual Law and Order Night. The ceremony celebrated the contributions of outstanding local law enforcement and firefighter personnel.

Among the honorees were firefighters Donald Schulter, and Andrew Hodges, as well as police officer Peter Rogan and Auxiliary Police Chief Gerald Chafetz. The ceremony was attended by many local politicians as well, including Mayor Francis Murray.

Ex Captain Schulter was honored with a golden firefighters axe for his 47 years of service to the Rockville Centre Fire Department. Mayor Murray, who is firefighter himself, has been a longtime colleague of Schulter. “Donny, you make us all proud,” said the mayor.

Lieutenant Andrew Hodges was honored for his outstanding first responder and EMT skills after saving the life of a man who suffered a heart attack during a concert at South Side Middle School.

Officer Rogan was honored after being selected for the Police Service Awards by a committee of his peers. Rogan was chosen for his outstanding law enforcement service and using quick thinking to make some important arrests in the last year. Chief Chafetz was honored for his longtime service as auxiliary police chief.

In addition to the honorees, boy scouts Liam Schmitt and David Matos gave a short presentation on their experiences at Boy’s State, a highly regarded educational and leadership program. The two were sponsored by the post to attend the program, and enjoyed their experience.