A very rainy Memorial Day weekend ended on a high note as showers ended and the sun almost peeked though the clouds at Bartlett Pond Park on Monday, May 25 at 11am. Organizers of the 18th Annual Longwood Memorial Day Remembrance Ceremony had thought an abbreviated session might be needed, but the full program was conducted with the exception of participation by the local Scout troops and the LHS Choralions. These youth groups were asked to stay home when the forecast called for possible thunder — safety first, always. Smaller flags and pre-recorded music stood in for the young people, who will be welcomed back next year with open arms.
Thanks to the sound truck manned by Matt Gropper, the ceremony featured remarks by US Congressman Nick LaLota, SC Legislators Nick Caracappa and Chad Lennon’s rep Quentin Palifka, Brookhaven Councilman Mike Loquercio and crowd favorite Marine Veteran Stewart “Gunny” Rubin. The Presidential Proclamation was read by MI Civic VP Rich Kollar. Kevin Mann, Jim Dowling and Tom Bove read the Peace Prayer, Opening Prayer and Closing Prayer respectively. BOE VP Dan Tomaszewski, Yaphank FD Chief Don Schaaf, Coram FD Commissioner Van Johnson and MICA President Gail Lynch-Bailey paid tribute to recently passed leaders, Veterans and volunteers including Bill Miller, Maureen Silvestri, Patti Butler, Ron Hoffman, Deacon Monte Naylor, John and JoAnn Hoeffner and Paul Spillett. Frank Bailey read aloud the Names of the Fallen and Lydia Fusco rang the MIFD bell after each of the 25 names– these names are marked with a star on the Longwood Veterans memorials.
Wreaths were placed at all eight stones by members of the Middle Island, Coram and Yaphank FDs, many of whom had honored their own departmental departed earlier over the weekend. As is our tradition, all Veterans, active military and family reps were invited to come forward, share their service and receive deserved thanks from the crowd. This year in particular a number of regular attendees came forward for the first time to say the names of their departed Veteran family members. The somber, sweet and essential ceremony ended with God Bless America. Many thanks to all who made this happen and to everyone who didn’t let a little rain keep them home.
