Veterans honored at Levy Lakeside School

Prior to the Veteran’s Day holiday observance, Levy Lakeside Elementary School in Merrick held its annual assembly to honor local veterans, specifically relatives of current Lakeside students. Eighteen veterans representing the five branches of the U.S. military were honored by their grandchildren, the school community and government officials. One elected official, New York State Assemblyman Dave McDonough, was also honored for his service.

Hempstead Town Councilwoman Erin King Sweeney and Nassau County Legislator Steve Rhoads joined McDonough, Merrick school officials and Levy Lakeside students and staff in the school gymnasium, where the proud families of the veterans witnessed this special ceremony. The Levy Lakeside fifth-grade Student Council Color Guard performed the opening exercises and the Pledge of Allegiance. Later in the program, each veteran was presented with a rose by their grandchild, and music from the division of the army for which they served was played during the ceremony.

Levy Lakeside also hosted a special breakfast for the veterans just prior to the ceremony. Each veteran also received a special gift bag filled with items supplied from local businesses as a small show of appreciation for all that they have done to protect our country and freedoms. Special thanks to the many local businesses that donated food and gifts. Additional thanks to Al Belbol Jr. for serving as the emcee for the event.