Grand Marshall Michael Dolan led New Hyde Park’s Memorial Day Parade Saturday, as hundreds came out to support the parade.
The American Legion and VFW Color Guard #147 led the parade behind Dolan. New Hyde Park Mayor Daniel, along with the village’s board of trustees, State Senator Jack Martins, and County Legislator Richard Nicollelo marched closely behind the color guard, waving to people as they march down Jericho turnpike.
The parade made its way down Jericho turnpike, stopping at the New Hyde Park Village Hall for a ceremony that included a 21 gun salute for those who died in battle. The names of those who fell in battle in World War II and the Korean War, who were from New Hyde Park was read off.
As the parade continued down New Hyde Park Road, it came to end at New Hyde Park Memorial park, where crowds gathered to listen to speeches given by official members of the community.
Rev. Dan Olson of the New Hyde Park Baptist Church gave the invocation speech.
“We should remember the fallen, those who loved freedom more than their own life,” Olson said. “We ask God to look over our troops and bring them home safe.”
Petruccio said he was glad that so many people came out to celebrate a day that over the years has lost a lot of its meaning to people. He said he hoped one day there will be peace and Memorial day would not be needed.
“This is a significant day,” Petruccio said. “Let this be a day of hope, so we will one day not need a Memorial Day.”
Rev. Romeo Dabee of the Gloria Dei Lutheran Church of New Hyde park gave the benediction speech, thanking everyone for coming out.
“Thanks be to God for taking some time out of your lives to come here today,” Dabee said.
As the ceremonies concluded, a wreath was placed at the Memorial Day monument and Marilyn McClean sang the National Anthem.
