Thousands attend Patriots’ Day in Lynbrook

Even though rain pushed Lynbrook’s annual Patriots’ Day celebration from a Sunday to a Monday, it didn’t stop thousands of residents from showing up.
The event was held on Memorial Day at Greis Park and about 3,000 residents attended to take part in the festivities. It was originally scheduled for May 27 at 4:30 p.m., but was pushed to May 28 at 5 p.m.
One of the highlights of the event was Mayor Alan Beach’s picnic, which was sponsored by the Republican Party. The Department of Public Works volunteered their time to cook during the picnic, along with Assemblyman Brian Curran and his wife, Rosemarie.
“There was a great turnout for the picnic,” Beach said.
There was also a VIP tent, where Atria of Tanglewood provided food for about 100 veterans. In addition, magician John Turdo performed for children at the park’s gazebo and a DJ also provided entertainment.

The patriotic evening concluded with a fireworks show that dazzled the audience. “The fireworks went off perfect at 9 o’clock,” Beach said. “It was a great show.”
Students from Lynbrook Musical Instruction performed songs during the fireworks display, including the patriotic anthem “Yankee Doodle Dandy.”
The event capped a full day dedicated to veterans. A parade was held in the morning, which Beach said was well attended and featured many residents applauding the veterans who passed by. World War II veteran Al Maze, who turns 99 next month, served as the grand marshal. “It was an honor to be with him,” Beach said.
The day also included a ceremony led by members of the Veterans of Foreign Wars at the Doughboy monument in honor of all who died serving the U.S.