-By Paul Ehrbar, Mayor, Williston Park
This past Memorial Day American Legion Post 144 held its annual memorial service followed by a village-wide parade. A number of people spoke here and elsewhere throughout the country, many in eloquent fashion. Although I may not be as eloquent as others I’d like to pass my thoughts on to those who were unable to attend this meaningful event. Following is my brief statement given on Memorial Day.
I’d like first to thank Post 144 for their continued sponsorship of this Memorial Day parade,
Prior to the parade I was able to attend their memorial service which was quite moving. Those veterans and members of the ladies auxiliary who passed away during 2014 were memorialized during this somber event.
While we salute and honor our veterans and service men and women on this occasion, Memorial Day is set aside to specifically honor all those service men and women who have given their lives in defense of this great country.
Although family gatherings are an integral part of this day we must never forget the meaning of this national holiday. While store sales dominate the newspapers this day, it is not about these sales but rather a day to reflect on our country’s history and those who has been instrumental in allowing us to continue our way of life.
Since the revolution, individuals of all national heritages have died through their dedication to the vales of this great country. I’m sure we all know of someone who has made the ultimate sacrifice of life for the principles established in our constitution. It is those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice that we honor and remember today.
I ask for a moment of silence in recognition of these heroes. Although American soldiers’ involvement in world conflicts has decreased, our valiant members of the armed forces continue to remain in harm’s way. Death to anyone in the armed forces, whether on the front lines or not, is a tragedy.
God bless our service men and women and please keep them in your prayers. God Bless the United States of America.
The day has passed yet it is imperative that we continue to remember and honor all those who made the ultimate sacrifice and those who continue to remain in harm’s way.
Registration for pool membership is in full swing at the pool, daily 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Pass the word along to neighbors and friends. A long hot summer is predicted this year so be prepared.
I’ve been asked by a number of residents to once again remind dog owners of the village regulations regarding the walking of said dog. As a lifelong owner of dogs, I can fully appreciate the needs of both dog owners and non-dog owners. Village regulations require that when walking a dog the owner is required to ensure that the pet urinate and defecate along the curb. Dogs should not be allowed to do this on either the grass between the sidewalk and curb or the personal property of others. I ask all to be respectful of their neighbors and their neighbor’s property.
