Saturday, November 14, 2026
Lynbrook residents, veterans and village officials gathered at the Doughboy Monument near the Long Island Rail Road station on Nov. 11 to honor the men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces during the village's annual Veterans Day ceremony.
The morning began at the Veterans of Foreign Wars Hall on Merrick Road, where members of Lynbrook's VFW and American Legion posts shared breakfast served by the Lynbrook Police Benevolent Association, continuing a longstanding Veterans Day tradition.
"The PBA does this every year," said Steve Grogan, who provided information about the annual observance.
Following breakfast, veterans assembled at the Doughboy Monument for the 11 a.m. service, joined by Mayor Alan Beach, members of the village Board of Trustees and community members.
Lynbrook VFW Commander Pat Nealon opened the ceremony by recognizing the Lynbrook Police Department for its continued support of local veterans, particularly through the annual Veterans Day breakfast.
"First of all, I'd like to thank the Lynbrook Police Department," Nealon said. "They're graciously serving breakfast to the veterans."
Nealon explained that the breakfast, held annually at the VFW Hall on Merrick Road, has become a tradition for local veterans.
"We do this every year, and it's always very well appreciated," he said, extending his gratitude to Police Chief Brian Paladino and the department.
Following his remarks, Nealon invited attendees to stand for the Pledge of Allegiance before introducing Silvia Trott, who delivered an opening prayer honoring fallen and missing service members and recognizing the sacrifices made to preserve the nation's freedoms.
Beach then addressed the crowd, emphasizing the courage, selflessness and dedication of those who have worn the nation's uniform.
"Our veterans have sacrificed what most of us will never fully understand," Beach said. "They have left their families, their homes and the comfort of everyday life."
He acknowledged the hardships faced by service members, including those who returned home with physical injuries and others who continue to carry the emotional effects of their experiences.
Beach also emphasized that veterans' contributions extend far beyond their years of military service, as many continue to strengthen their communities through leadership, volunteerism and public service.
"Their service does not end when they take off the uniform," he said.
Speaking directly to the veterans in attendance, Beach expressed the village's appreciation for their service and the sacrifices made by their families.
"Thank you for your bravery. Thank you for your sacrifice. Thank you for standing in harm's way so we can stand here today in freedom," he said.
Beach concluded by encouraging residents to demonstrate their gratitude throughout the year, rather than limiting their recognition to Veterans Day.
"Let us honor our veterans, not just with ceremonies and speeches, but with actions, our respect and our commitment to never take their service for granted," he said.
The ceremony also featured a performance of taps on the trumpet by West End Elementary School student Ryan Rodriguez, offering a solemn musical tribute to the veterans in attendance.
The annual gathering served as a reminder of the sacrifices made by generations of service members and Lynbrook's continued commitment to honoring those who have defended the nation's freedoms.
