Rockville Centre remembers Pearl Harbor, celebrates veterans

Rockville Centre veterans, officials and residents gathered in the rain on Dec. 7 in Centennial Park at Mill River to commemorate the 71st anniversary of Japan’s attack on Pearl Harbor on that same date in 1941.

The commander of the American Legion Post 303 on Maple Avenue, Joseph Scarola, reiterated the idea that the attack is still vivid in the minds of many veterans and the remembrance serves as a reminder of the importance of preparation and vigilance.

Rockville Centre Police Commissioner Charles Gennario, Rockville Centre Fire Department Chief John Busching and Mayor Francis Murray were present as the ceremonial wreath was thrown into the water.

Many of the veterans and officials went to the Sandel Senior Center after the Pearl Harbor ceremony for a Veteran’s Day luncheon.

The annual Sandel Senior Center Veteran’s Day luncheon had been rescheduled as a result of Hurricane Sandy.

According to Kathe Hardenburgh, the Sandel staff liaison to the Men’s Club, the event also recognized Sandel member Frank Naro, who was recently inducted into the New York State Senate Veterans’ Hall of Fame by Senator Dean Skelos, as well as the recognition of 10 village employees who are veterans. Other members of the Sandel Senior Center who are veterans also shared stories about “a soldier’s life.”