Peacemakers sing praises of nation's peacekeepers

Local veterans and soldiers were the guests of honor at a colorful Memorial Day songfest at the Maurice W. Downing Primary School in Malverne last week.

The PTA Chorus, under the direction of Dr. Melissa D’Andrea and musical director Laura Casini, entertained the audience with a selection of popular and patriotic songs, including “Peace Train, “Come on Get Happy” and “Firefly.” Students joined in for the finale  — a red, white and blue rendition of “Stand Up America,” which was written by Lakeview resident Dave Revels. To the delight of children and adults alike, chorus members dressed up their performance with lively choreography and colorful props.

Members of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1073 and American Legion Malverne Post 44 were the guests of honor for the first show. Marine Sergeant Timmy Ledwith, who is the brother of teacher Katy Smith, and Army Spc. Joshua Rivera, who is the brother of teacher Joe Dunn, were honored at the second performance.

At the conclusion of the ceremony, members of Downing’s Peacemakers were recognized for their citizenship.