Post 1836 of Woodside, N.Y. holds Memorial Day ceremony

On Memorial Day 2019, American Legion Post 1836, Blvd Gardens (Woodside, N.Y.) held its annual ceremony which has occurred for over 50 consecutive years. The ceremony, which included the "National Anthem," "God Bless America" and the reading of the names of the deceased veterans from our community, was highlighted by those killed in action. The ceremony is meant to keep an awareness in the minds of our community that “freedom is not free.”

It was won and is kept by the men and women who currently serve in the Armed Forces, as well as those who served in the past. Memorial Day reinforces in all of us the honor and valor of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. They must never be forgotten.

Our community heard remarks from our and neighboring elected officials which included Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Senator Michael Gianaris, Assemblyman Brian Barnwell, Assemblywoman Aravella Simotas and NYC Councilman Jimmy van Bramer. Six floral wreaths were donated by local organizations and hung under the main archway on the grounds of Blvd. Gardens, a 900 apartment co-op community. Our ceremony was also attended by World War II veteran Luke Gasparre, who is 95 years young.