Forever in their debt

On the 90th anniversary of what was once known as Armistice Day, members of the Rockville Centre community paused to give thanks and honor the courage and sacrifice of the men and women in our armed services.

A small crowd filled the Recreation Center’s auditorium Wednesday morning to watch as color guards from Rockvillle Centre’s police and fire departments, in full dress uniform, participated in a solemn and moving ceremony led by Adjutant Joseph Scarola of American Legion Post 303, standing in at the last minute for Gus Lanzo, the post’s commander.

Mayor Mary Bossart spoke of the particular poignancy of this year’s Veteran’s Day observance, following closely on the heels of the “deranged” attack at Fort Hood, and the commissioning of the USS New York.

“We cannot and must not underestimate the value of their service,” Bossart said of the veterans, “their courage protects us in a dangerous world. We’re forever in their debt.”

Scarola reminded the audience of our veterans’ historic accomplishments — defeating communism, fascism and imperialism, keeping peace during the Cold War and defending us today against global terrorism. Living veterans from the greatest generation to the latest generation, he said, should be honored with more than just words. And he urged everyone to also consider the sacrifices made by the families of veterans as well.