DAR Daffodils Brighten Park Memorial Area

The women of the Colonel Aaron Ogden Chapter NSDAR, returned to Ellsworth Allen Park in Farmingdale on April 17 to see the results of the Memorial Daffodil Garden they planted last fall. The garden area located at the base of the flag pole at the park entrance also displays a piece of steel from the 9/11 World Trade Towers. The April 17 gathering was attended by District 17 Nassau County Legislator Rose Marie Walker.

The Daffodil Garden was the idea of Chapter Registrar Nancy Mettz. Chapter Regent Carla Hall D’Ambra was enthused about the concept. She noted it was intended to remember our veterans and those we’ve loved and lost during the pandemic and on 9/11. D’Ambra encouraged the women to say aloud the name of their Revolutionary ancestors, our first veterans. Then a second round of remembrance was offered for those family and friends who have passed away. This emotional moment was concluded with the playing of bagpipe music by Victor Vaccaro . He began with a very touching rendition of “Amazing Grace.” To honor the memory of our veterans, Vaccaro played a medley of several tunes representing different branches of the military, such as “Anchors Aweigh.”

Following the service, Walker remarked that she greatly appreciated the chapter’s efforts in remembering our veterans and the freedoms they have made possible. She praised the chapter for planting a beautiful garden and for holding such a meaningful ceremony.

D’Ambra also recognized a number of chapter members for their volunteer work during the pandemic. Honored members were given a certificate from the chapter, which were hand painted and lettered in calligraphy by Chapter Corresponding Secretary Janice Derr.
The event concluded with D’Ambra thanking those who attended and participated in the day’s ceremonies and she ended the gathering with a brief prayer.

—Submitted by the Colonel Aaron Ogden Chapter NSDAR