Voices from our readers

Thank-you to Veterans Day participants

To the Editor:

First, thanks to the Herald for being a part of our Veterans Day celebration. Your attendance and reporting goes a long way to motivate all Veterans in our community to join our band of brothers.

Veterans Day at Silver Lake Park was a success because many people made it so. I want to thank Baldwin schools for the excellent program that the Octapella Singers and the Brass Band offered. If you didn't attend, you missed an exhibition of excellence. Their performance more than justifies our investment in the schools.

I thank the Rev. Jim Van Schaick of First Church of Baldwin for his inspirational invocation and benediction. State Assemblyman Bob Barra led the Pledge of Allegiance and offered words of wisdom. Hempstead Town Councilman Anthony Santino, a most visible proponent of Baldwin, provided a thought-provoking commentary about veterans.

We were graced by the extraordinary representation of Patriot Guard Riders, the men who shepherd our departed veterans to their final resting place, and our community's Gold Star Mothers. Our rifle salute was provided by veterans who go above and beyond to recognize patriotic causes.

Wreaths honoring our veterans were provided by Baldwin American Legion Post 246, its Ladies Auxiliary, the Sons of the Legion, the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the Baldwin Fire Department, the Chamber of Commerce and Baldwin Rotary Club. Second Vice Commander Richie Meyer provided a wreath honoring the victims of agent orange.

As always, Post 246 Commander Steve Bohn was master of ceremonies, and Sy Majid rang the bell, signifying the end of the war.

Finally, I thank the post members, their families and community members who attended our service. This cadre of dedicated individuals makes the effort we put forth to develop a program worthwhile.

We did well this year, but hopefully next year we will be better. Thank you.