Malverne’s American Legion Post 44 honored members of the Village’s police and fire departments during its 37th annual Law and Order Night on March 26, when first responders were recognized for their dedication in serving the community and protecting its citizens.
“Presenting these awards is personal to me,” Michael Ernst, the Legion’s vice chair, said. “I’m a former police officer and I served in the military, so I understand what these guys go through. It’s important that they are recognized by the community they serve, like we’re saying, ‘Hey, we appreciate you guys.’”
Ernst delivered a speech honoring military members who could not return from service, explaining the symbolism of a set table with an empty chair.
“The upside-down cup signifies everyone who cannot be here to toast with us,” Ernst, a member of the American Legion for four years, said. “It was actually my wife who suggested I get involved with these guys. I liked what I saw, the camaraderie, the dedication to Americanism.”
Malverne Village Trustee Scott Edwards thanked the Legion’s members for their continued commitment to the community, and all servicemembers for their dedication to keeping Malverne safe.
Sgt. Andrew Vishnudat, a member of the Malverne Police Reserve for nine years, was honored during the ceremony for his continued voluntary service to the reserve unit.
“I joined the reserves to protect my kids and the community they live in,” Vishnudat said. “They are growing up here."
“This town needs all the help it can get,” he added. “We’re a small town that doesn’t have a huge budget, so people serve this community out of the goodness of their hearts. So many things happen around here, and the police need the extra help, that’s why I joined the reserves.”
Malverne Police Sgt. Robert Lang and Officer Christopher Aresta received awards for capturing a man accused of stealing checks from mailboxes in Malverne. Malverne Police Chief Tom Martini explained that Lang and Aresta saw the suspect wandering around the neighborhood at 3 a.m., when they discovered he was in possession of checks that did not belong to him.
The stolen property was allegedly found inside the suspect’s car, police said. A subsequent investigation revealed that he allegedly had opened mailboxes and snatched the checks, presumably with the intent to cash them, police added.
“It’s an honor to be awarded,” Lang said. “Giving back to my community is the most rewarding experience. I attend this ceremony every year. They always show their appreciation for the first-responders in this town.”
The Legion also honored Robert “Boo” Roth Jr., who received his award for 50 years of active duty with the Malverne Fire Department. Roth served as a lieutenant, captain and deputy chief before becoming chief of the Malverne Fire Department in 1998. He was also a 4th Battalion Delegate and a member of multiple department committees and the department council.
Malverne Fire Chief Anthony Buonomo presented Roth with the award and gave a speech in tribute to his continued service and dedication to the department and the Malverne community.
“Boo is what I like to call a true pillar of this fire department,” Buonomo said. “Even with 50 years of service, he remains an active and dependable member. His dedication to the firehouse, whether for small tasks, large projects, or simply just giving advice, speaks volumes about his character and commitment.”
The Legion also presented Eagle Scout Troop 24 Anthony Chioffe with a citation, highlighting his support of the Legion and his assistance in efforts to restore parts of the Legion’s building as an Eagle Scout Service Project.
In addition, three families in the community — the Skliros, Macaluso, and Tricolla families — received the Citation of Appreciation, an award commemorating their “outstanding citizenship” for displaying the American flag outside their homes.
Village trustees Megan O’Rourke-Schutta, Lori A. Lang, and Carl Prizzi also attended the awards ceremony. Mayor Tim Sullivan and State Sen. Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick could not attend but sent their regards via Trustee Edwards.
