Appreciating law and order in Rockville Centre

The Rockville Centre American Legion Post 303 held its annual Law and Order night on Oct. 18, honoring several local emergency responders. The event, held at the hall on Maple Avenue, is part of the American Legion’s nationwide program that recognizes the outstanding contributions of top local law enforcement, fire fighting and emergency medical personnel. About 100 people were in attendance.

Award recipients included Sgt. Dan Heffernan of the Rockville Centre Police Department, auxiliary police chief Ed Mussini and Charles Krahm, ex-captain of the Rockville Centre Fire Department. Edward Oppenheimer was given an award posthumously for his years as a dedicated EMT. The award recipients are selected by the police and fire departments. Heffernan received an engraved Glock donated by Atlantic Tactical of Farmingdale.

According to American Legion Post 303 Vice Commander Paul Casazza, the Post started hosting the program about five years ago.

“We understand service and sacrifice,” Casazza said, “and that’s what our local police, fire and EMTs do by helping to keep our town safe. These awards are a way to recognize them and give back to the community.”

Every year, the American Legion sends two high school juniors to American Legion Boys State, a weeklong program held at SUNY Morrisville the last week of June. While there, the students learn about government. This year, Eli Pullaro and Michael Murray were chosen to attend and each talked about his experience during Law and Order night.

American Legion Boys State is among the most respected and selective educational programs of government instruction for U.S. high school students. A participatory program in which students become part of the operation of local, county and state government, Boys State was founded in 1935 to counter the socialism-inspired Young Pioneer Camps.

At Boys State, participants learn the rights, privileges and responsibilities of franchised citizens. The training is objective and centers on the structure of city, county and state governments. Operated by students elected to various offices, Boys State activities include legislative sessions, court proceedings, law-enforcement presentations, assemblies, bands, choruses and recreational programs.