By Rachel Kalina
Members of American Legion Malverne Post No. 44 and VFW Frank J. Ruddock Post No. 1073 gathered on Nov. 11 to honor those who have fallen in past and current wars, as well as those still serving.
About 30 veterans in uniform and 20 onlookers showed up on a mild-weathered Saturday morning to stand before the gazebo for the memorial. Speeches were given by commanders from both posts and Mayor Anthony Panzarella, and a respectful silence set the background for the day of remembrance.
"We remember how men and women set aside their civilian pursuits to pursue our nation's cause," said Louis Jaccione, commander of VFW Post No. 1073. "Out of blood and sweat, we learned of sacrifice, tolerance, bravery and discipline."
West Hempstead veterans held a similar ceremony on Veterans Day in front of the American Legion Cathedral Post No. 1087. The ceremony began at 10:30 a.m. and also featured veterans in uniform.
The day's speeches shared a common theme of giving thanks to those who had served in past wars as well as their families.
"It recognizes the veterans for the service they provided for our country," said veteran John Hassett of the ceremony.
Malverne resident Vicky Marchese agreed with Hassett's sentiments.
"We shouldn't forget that we have what we have thanks to the people who have sacrificed their lives," she said.
The father of two young children chasing a black puppy nearby said he and his family had showed up to teach younger generations about their history.
"It's for the youngsters to know their grandfathers and grandmothers were in these wars and to respect them by coming out to see the veterans," said Anthony Lanzotti of West Babylon. Lanzotti's father, standing among the observant veterans, had served in the Korean War.
At the start of the ceremony, American flags were presented as the order was given to "advance to colors." A prayer and the pledge of allegiance followed, along with a history of why Veterans Day was one to remember. The holiday pays tribute to veterans of all wars, and the Nov. 11 date marks the day in 1918 when the armistice ending World War I was signed ‹ the eleventh hour of the eleventh calendar month. The holiday was originally celebrated as Armistice Day, and became Veterans Day in 1954.
In his speech, Panzarella quoted Arizona Senator John McCain, who was a prisoner of war during the Vietnam War. Panzarella concluded his remarks by commending the veterans in attendance "on behalf of the people of Malverne."
Another speaker pointed out that those serving in the current Iraq war should also be honored. He noted that there are more than 20,000 women fighting in the armed services.
Veteran George Jacobsen, who had fought in the Korean War, felt that the ceremony was not just to honor past and current troops, but it was also for the benefit of Malverne citizens as well. He said the turnout was a little low at the start of the ceremony, however.
"It's not really for the veterans who show up,² he said, "It's for the citizens of the village."
Still, many of the veterans felt honored by the event.
"You lose the whole meaning," if people don't hold these ceremonies, said Philip Guerrieri of VFW Post No. 44.
Post No. 44 commander Peter Zullo echoed Guerrieri's thoughts. "[W]e have a tendency to forget veterans and only acknowledge them when we need them," he said. "I don't want this to happen to the ladies and men who are serving now."
Comments about this story? RKalina@liherald.com or (516) 569-4000 ext. 282.
