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Light Drizzle and Breezy A day of remembrance in Lynbrook
Residents, veterans honor war dead
Hundreds of people lined the streets of Lynbrook on Monday to remember the servicemen and women who gave their lives fighting for freedom.
Lynbrook’s schools, police and fire departments, civic organizations, sports leagues and other groups marched in the parade on a crystal-clear, summer-like morning.
“I think the parade was beautiful,” said Kevin Canty, the newly elected Lynbrook Veterans of Foreign Wars commander. “The support we get from the community is second to none, and I’m really proud to be from Lynbrook today.”
Current VFW commander Pat Cardone said the event would not have been a success had it not been for the organizations that marched in the parade and the hundreds of residents who came out in support. “It’s a community — that’s what makes everything happen,” said Cardone. “When the veterans see the rest of the community out there, that makes it special, and when we have a turnout like this it’s excellent.”
A solemn service
“You don’t have to serve in the military to be a great American. The only thing that you really have to do is be a great American, and you know what? Today I’ve seen a whole village do it.” That’s how 1st Sgt. William Bodette began his address at a memorial service after the parade.
Bodette, a Bronze Star and Purple Heart recipient who served for 23 years as a U.S. Marine, including three combat tours in Somalia, Iraq and Afghanistan, was the parade’s grand marshal.
“I am so proud to be here today,” he told the crowd. “This is America right here. This is what I fought for, this is what I could have ultimately given my life for, and I will do it again tomorrow if I have to.”
Bodette spoke of the people with whom he served — the friends who lost their lives in combat — and how he sees their faces at night when he closes his eyes. His speech received a standing ovation.
The service, held at the village’s Dough Boy monument, included short speeches from local elected officials, and representatives of veterans organizations. VFW member and U.S. Navy veteran Kevin Lawlor said that Bodette was a great selection for grand marshal. “Couldn’t have picked a better person,” he said. “Those were powerful words. A real American, and a true hero.”
