By Angela Marshall
Both South Hempstead residents were killed while saving lives at the World Trade Center on Sept. 11.
Having attended Rockville Centre schools, the men are fondly remembered by many villagers.
"The response was overwhelming," said Joe's sister, Teresa. She believes the granite monument etched with Joe's face and built around an eternal flame has brought her mother peace. "It really lifted my mother."
The Town of Hempstead also renamed the streets around the firehouse in Joe's memory. The unveiling was witnessed by members of Joe's squad, 288, who came out to march in the parade.
Robert's friends and fellow officers from the 13th Precinct also marched in the parade and attended the service.
"He was a great friend, a great son and probably the best brother that could possibly be," said Robert's sister, Carol Lovero.
She thanked the fire department for including Robert in their tribute. A plaque etched with his face will forever pay tribute to his heroic sacrifice on Sept. 11.
She also thanked the New York City Police Department for their support. "I don't think we could ever have made it without you guys," Carol said.
Hempstead Town Supervisor Richard Guardino said it was fitting that the men were honored on Memorial Day because they were the first casualties of the first American war of the 21st century.
