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 the country's armed services.

A small crowd filled the Recreation Center’s auditorium on the morning of Nov. 11 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 Veterans 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 spoke not only of the sacrifices our veterans make, but also of the sacrifices their families make, saying they, too, should be in our thoughts and in our “compassionate hearts.”

Describing the more than 300,000 men and women currently serving in the armed forces and their predecessors as “ordinary people who accomplish extraordinary things,” Scarola noted that few American citizens can claim the title of “veteran.”

He reminded the audience of the historic accomplishments of America's veterans — who defeated communism, fascism and imperialism, kept peace during the Cold War and who now defend the country against global terrorism. Living veterans from the "Greatest Generation" to the latest generation, he said, should be honored with more than just words.

In keeping with tradition, at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, when World War I — “The Great War” — that was supposed to be the war that ended all wars itself ended, Scarola rang a bell. A moment of silence for all the veterans who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country followed, as did a spirited rendition of “God Bless America,” led by Peter Scaturro, that many voices joined.

Among those who attended were former Mayor Gene Murray, trustees Dave Krasula, Ed Oppenheimer and Kevin Glynn, Village Administrator Frank Quigley, Police Department Inspector Rich Fantry, and representatives from the American Legion Ladies Auxiliary, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Disabled American Veterans and the Chosin Few.

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