Memorial Day’s spirit harks toward summer

Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, connects community spirit with family outings and celebratory barbecues. It became an official federal holiday in 1971 to honor those who died while serving in the U.S. military.
With feet moving in sync, flags waving in the air, and instruments buzzing, Hewlett High School’s marching band took part in the Monday parade. The Hewlett Bulldog led the group, waving to those in the crowd watching and waving small American flags.
“It was great to see so many different people of the community watch the parade,” Franny Gould, a junior and drum major, said. “The parade is a great way to start the holiday, show our patriotism, and recognize the proximity of the summer.”
Many students from Hewlett High are also involved in the Hewlett Junior Fire Department that marched with other fire department members. Younger children marched, including a local Girl Scouts troop.
The celebration did not end after the marching band’s encore in front of the high school parking lot. Cabaret Club members quickly set up and performed songs from their set at Cabaret Night, a student-run fundraiser.

“I loved reuniting with my fellow Cabaret Night musicians to put on another performance,” junior Sarah Husain said. “Practicing and working together to share our spirit on this holiday is a great experience, especially to do it for our own community.”
Prior to Memorial Day the Youth Leadership Club collected funds for the Field of Honor flag display, that was commemorated with a May 21 ceremony at the Woodmere Education Center. The YLC also raised money for Wounded Warrior Project, a charity and veterans service organization that offers a variety of programs, service and events for military veterans injured during their service time..
Memorial Day marks the unofficial start of the summer season. But a few school days remain as students gear up for finals and Regents exams. Also, on May 21, Hewlett-Woodmere students, who will be first-, fifth- and eighth-graders in September, took part in Link Day, when they visited their new school.
This school year’s challenges, lessons and accomplishments are almost behind us and a new year of the same will follow; but first summer.