More than 200 guests, including veterans of World War II, the Korean and Vietnam wars and Desert Storm, attended the two-hour “Salute to Veterans” Breakfast on Oct. 9.
The event at Clinton G. Martin Park paid tribute to the men and women who courageously put themselves in harm’s way to protect America’s freedom and also brought together various veteran agencies to raise awareness about available services and entitlements.
“This breakfast represents but a small token of appreciation,” said North Hempstead Acting Town Supervisor John Riordan. “Nothing we do would be an appropriate enough gesture for the tremendous sacrifices you and your families make to defend our country. This gathering does however give us the opportunity to shake your hand, to embrace you and to tell you face-to-face: thank you.”
The “Salute to Veterans,” which was coordinated by the town’s Department of Community Services, kicked off with a presentation of colors by a six-man detail from the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. That was followed by the Pledge of Allegiance, the Star-Spangled Banner, a moment of silence in memory of all those who have given their lives in defense of our nation, the Armed Forces Medley, performed by the U.S. Army Field Band and Soldiers Chorus and a retirement of the colors.
After Riordan introduced the elected officials and thanked everyone for coming, he turned the ceremonies over to the keynote speaker, public affairs officer at Northport V.A. Medical Center and veteran advocate Joe Sledge. Sledge, an army veteran himself, currently serves as an officer with the American Legion.
Sledge urged those in attendance to help out veterans’ organizations in any way possible.
“Even if you just donate a little bit of time once a month, we all should give a little back to these brave men and women who risked everything to keep us safe,” he said.
Joe Dell’Aquila, an Army veteran from Garden City Park, said the breakfast not only gave him an opportunity to socialize with fellow veterans but also was a great source of invaluable information.
“I think the town always does a wonderful job,” said Dell’Aquila. “Every year I see a lot of familiar faces and we enjoy coming here. It’s nice to see North Hempstead bring veterans from all walks of life together like this.”
