The service at Veterans Memorial Park was dedicated to the veterans of World War II. Many who served were recognized by Mayor Eugene Murray during the keynote address. The mayor served in Europe.
Seventy-five villagers were killed in WWII.
Speakers also recognized those serving in America's new war on terrorism and the men and women who died on Sept. 11. "They never realized when they got up that morning that they were in a war," Murray said.
Jill Rosenblum, whose husband, Andrew, was killed in the World Trade Center attacks, sang the national anthem.
Wreaths were placed in front of monuments dedicated to all the Rockville Centre residents who died in World War I, World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War.
Rockville Centre children were given the role of leading the Pledge of Allegiance. Grand Marshal John J. Gallagher said seeing all the children at the service reminded him of the times he attended parades with his father. He said the children are our future and their love of country needs to be nourished.
A rifle squad of veterans and police officers shot off a salute and members of the South Side High School Band played "Taps."
See related story page 14.
