The Whitestone community turned out in force on Monday morning, May 26, to honor the nation’s fallen military heroes during its annual Memorial Day parade and remembrance ceremony.
Hosted by the Whitestone Veterans Memorial Association, the event began at 11 a.m. at Whitestone Memorial Field on 149th Street and 15th Drive. The solemn occasion brought together local veterans groups, elected officials, civic associations, and residents for a morning of reflection and patriotic tribute.
This year’s grand marshal was John Procida, who led the procession that featured American Legion Post 131, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4787, and Jewish War Veterans Post 415. Additional participants included the Dwarf Giraffe Athletic League, the Greater Whitestone Taxpayers Civic Association, and the Whitestone Merchants Association, among many others.
“Today is all about those men and women who gave their lives in military service to the United States,” said Michael Seeley, a member of American Legion Post 131 and the parade’s master of ceremonies. “We are gathered here so that we can remember their sacrifices. We must never forget them, and your presence here today confirms they will not be forgotten.”
The parade committee, comprised of veterans and local community leaders, raised $7,845 to help cover the costs of this year’s event, including insurance, equipment, entertainment and post-parade refreshments at the American Legion hall.
New York City Council Member Vickie Paladino addressed the crowd, emphasizing the historical significance of Memorial Day and the sacrifices made by generations of servicemembers.
“You’re free to worship, you’re free to be who you are, you’re free to say what you want. But that did not come without a cost—that came with the death of hundreds of thousands of brave men and women,” Paladino said. “This is sacred ground we walk on, folks. Don’t you ever forget it. You take off your hat, you wave your flag, and you say it proudly: God bless America.”
Also in attendance were State Senator John Liu and Assembly Member Edward Braunstein, who praised the organizers and underscored the importance of preserving the tradition.
“We are able to enjoy this day as Americans because of so many who paid the ultimate price in defense of our ideals of freedom and democracy,” said Liu.
Braunstein added, “It’s a lot of work. It’s a lot of organizing, it’s fundraising… and it’s important that we do this every year. It’s important that we have an opportunity to come together as a community to pay tribute to those who’ve given the ultimate sacrifice.”
The Whitestone Veterans Memorial Association’s fundraising drive is to cover parade expenses and the ongoing upkeep of Memorial Field. Donations can be made to the Whitestone Veterans Memorial Association at American Legion Post 131, 10-20 Clintonville St., Whitestone, NY 11357.
