Glen Cove:
The Glen Cove Salutes Military Tribute Banner Program honored local service members by displaying photos of veterans and active-duty members throughout Morgan Memorial Park.
At a ceremony held on Sunday, May 25, the program also announced the winner of its fourth-annual essay contest, which aims to encourage the city’s youth to reflect on veterans’ service.
This year’s contest winner, co-sponsored by the VFW Post 347 and the Tribute and Honor Foundation, is Glen Cove High Schooler Michael Renga.
However, the banner ceremony wasn’t the only commemoration held in the city this weekend. The city held a ceremony to remember the fallen on Monday, May 26, which was followed by a parade through the city’s downtown. The parade was held in honor of Glen Cove native, Sergeant William “Billy” Morse, who served and fought in the Vietnam War.
Morse, a graduate of Glen Cove High School, is remembered for his strength of character and love for his country, both of which led him to serve when many others looked to avoid the call, the city said.
Oyster Bay:
The Oyster Bay parade, which marched down South Street in the heart of downtown on Monday, May 26, drew crowds as it commemorated and honored fallen soldiers. The parade, organized by the Oyster Bay Fire Department, honored Joseph Messina and Robert “Bob” Selby.
Selby volunteered for the U.S. Army draft at just 18 years old and served in the Vietnam War, earning numerous commendations for his service, the
Fire Department said.
The department said that in his retirement, Selby has supported other veterans through his work with the AMVETS and the Vietnam Veterans of America. Selby has lived in Oyster Bay for over 30 years with his wife.
Messina, who led the Fire Department division of the parade, has been a member of the Oyster Bay Fire Department for 50 years, the department said. Messina served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1959 to 1963, and spent seven years at the Syosset Fire Department before joining Oyster Bay’s.
