In spite of the fact that the wind whipped around the corner of Willis Avenue at the site of the Williston Park Monument on the grounds of Williston Park Village Hall bringing with it cold November temperatures, the sidewalk area was packed with residents on hand to observe Veterans Day ceremonies held by the Williston Park Veterans of Foreign Wars, the VFW, American Legion and village officials.
Williston Park Mayor Paul Ehrbar then gave the following address:
“Good morning to all on this brisk fall morning!”
“I’m honored to represent the Williston Park village board and the residents of Williston Park at this ceremony when at 11 a.m. on 11/11/11 the bells will ring nationwide in honor of our veterans and thank you to the VFW for organizing this event.
“Veterans Day is a day of remembrance following the ceasefire of World War I. While the war did not officially end until the Treaty of Versailles was signed on June 28, 1919, fighting ceased seven months earlier when an armistice was agreed on between Germany and the Allied Nations. Because the cessation of fire went into effect on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed November 11 Armistice Day.
“Originally intended as a day to honor World War I veterans, Armistice Day was expanded in many parts of America to include World War II veterans during the 1950s. President Dwight D. Eisenhower, himself a World War II veteran, made the name chance official in 1954 and today we honor all veterans.
“While I was unable to serve in the military, both my father and father-in-law served during WWII. My father served in the infantry fighting on the front line in Europe.
“My father-in-law served in the infantry fighting on the front lines in the South Pacific. Both of these men talked little of their battlefield experiences, but it was quite obvious to me that this period in their lives had a profound effect on them. While both complained about army life, neither complained about their responsibility to our country, both serving with valor and dignity. My father received a bronze star while my father-in-law received three. Both men were proud to serve.
“In this day of TV and Internet we hear the word hero used all too frequently. Our veterans are true heroes because their efforts are what has helped to transpire this nation into the world leader it has become.
“All those who have served deserve the respect and thanks from the entire nation.
“While we thank our veterans today we must also remember all the active servicemen and women that are serving throughout the world, many in harm’s way. Keep them and their families in your prayers.
“God Bless all veterans and their families and God Bless America!”
