On a sunny Memorial Day, May 29, 2023, our community once more gathered our family, friends, and neighbors together in honor of the men and women of our military heroes who protect our way of life each and every day.
This year was no different for the East Meadow Fire Department. Countless hours were spent cleaning and polishing all District equipment to prepare for the annual inspection of trucks and fire stations by the Board of Fire Commissioners and Chiefs. No doubt, it was a proud tradition unaffected by time.
At 9 am on Monday morning, all members were called to attention in full dress uniform by 1st Assistant Chief James Walsh for the Memorial Day Inspection.
The early morning ceremony included the lowering of the flag to half-staff as members saluted in unison to the sound of taps. Members soon turned to the memorial bell at Fire Headquarters where our department reflected on the members who passed in the last year.
In a solemn tribute, wreaths were set in the ground by representatives of the Chiefs, Board of Fire Commissioners, Benevolent Association, and Ladies Auxiliary.
A speech recognizing the meaning of the day was given by Chief of Department Philip Fertitta, as well as Chairman of the Board of Fire Commissioner John J. Priest. Their words put all the week’s work into perspective, preparing our organization for this day of military remembrance.
Proudly, the East Meadow Fire Department boasts more than a dozen volunteer firefighters who have also dedicated their lives as members of the Marines, Army, Navy, and Coast Guard. In our membership, you can find a hero from nearly every conflict of the past fifty years.
On this day, we salute each of you, our armed forces, for the sacrifices you have made to keep our country safe and our borders secure. With the ceremony complete, East Meadow firefighters boarded their apparatus and headed for the parade route.
At 10 am, the parade began its way down Carmen Avenue. In a massive display of pride and honor, one contingent after another passed, including veterans of military service, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, Cub Scouts, the Patriot Guard, our local dignitaries, vintage cars, and more. The remarkable sounds of the W Tresper Clarke High School, East Meadow High School, and Nassau County Firefighter’s Pipes and Drums bands highlighted the procession.
The parade gave EMFD members the opportunity to show the fruits of their hard work before a grateful community and to demonstrate the strong support our organization has for our military service.
Another year passed, and once again, the East Meadow Fire Department showed its community roots in remembering our military with the highest standard. This activity has been carried out in the East Meadow Fire Department for nearly 75 years.
Our department and community will always be grateful for those who fought to protect our freedom.
Photos: Jay Zinger
Story: John J. O’Brien Sr
Email: [email protected]
