Thursday, April 24, 2025
The Malverne community gathered at the American Legion Post 44 on Feb. 26 to honor the public service officers who keep the village safe. The Annual Law and Order night celebrates the work and dedication of Malverne’s first responders.
“Americanism is the love of America, loyalty to its institutions, as the best yet devised by a man to secure a life, liberty, individual dignity, and happiness, a willingness to defend our county and flag against all enemies, foreign and domestic, said Ed Howard, past vice commander of Post 44 and a past law and order chairman.
“Americanism means peace, strength, the will and courage to live as free men in a free land,” said Howard. “Its not a word, it’s a promise, a way of life. The best way of life ever known, a challenge and hope in this world.”
Malverne Police Officers Brian Schmidt and Greg Blazevich were honored with certificates of commendation by the American Legion for their response to a vehicle that caused hazardous conditions in Dec. 2024. The officers arrested the operator of the vehicle, who was impaired due to alcohol consumption. The operator, who resisted arrest, did cause harm to the officers while they took him into custody.
“Thanks to officer Blazevich and Schmidt’s actions, an intoxicated individual who was behind the wheel of a vehicle, and someone who was willing to fight and injure police officers, was taken off the streets,” said Tom Martini.
JR Lanteri, 2nd Deputy Chief of the Malverne Police Reserve, recognized Sergeant Jose Jimenez. Jimenez has provided excellent service to the reserve unit for just over five years.
Deputy Chief James Aresta honored Firefighter William McLaughlin for his over 50 years of dedicated service to the Malverne Fire Department. McLaughlin has served in many roles since he was first sworn in as a firefighter in 1974. “His dedication, not just as a firefighter, but as a mentor and role model, has helped shape our department,” said Aresta.
“There are so many people who give so much to Malverne,” said Senator Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick. “I am so honored to always stand here. Thank you for honoring our first responders, they make Malverne what Malverne is. They make Malverne the place that we all want to be, and make us proud everyday.”
The American Legion also honored members of the Malverne community who exhibit outstanding citizenship by displaying the United States flag outside their homes. Thomas Carpino, Michael Ruddick, David Weinstein, Guy and Deborah Bove, were given Citation’s of Appreciation by the Legion.
“There’s really nothing better on display then right here, right now in Malverne,” said Assemblyman C. William Gaylor. “The patriotism, the Americanism, this is what our sense of community is all about.”
