Sayville Honors Veterans at Ceremony

Residents, business owners, elected officials and most importantly veterans gathered at in Sayville on Thursday to celebrate Veteran's Day and honor those who died serving the United States.

Sparrow Park was a fitting location as it was built to remember local veterans. A column on the site was originally constructed to commemorate local World War I veterans and a plaque was later added to remember World War II veterans of Sayville. Members of the Sayville Village Improvement Society and the Garden Club, many who knew those who served in the second World War, work to beautiful the area each year.

At Thursday's ceremony, former Town of Islip Councilman Chris Bodkin announced that more names would be added to the memorial. In a joint effort between Suffolk County, led by Legislator Bill Lindsay, and the Town of Islip, led by Supervisor Phil Nolan, the names of the men who died in the Korea and Vietnam Wars will be added. The additional names, Bodkin said, should be in added to the memorial in time for Memorial Day next year. 

Local elected officials spoke to those in attendance regarding the importance of veterans and honoring them on Veteran's Day. urged people to not only thank a veteran, but hire a veteran suggesting that many return home from combat and are in need of employment.

Senator-elect thanked the local scouting troops for sending care packages overseas to those serving. "That is the highlight of their day," he said.

Assemblyman-elect encouraged people to donate gifts, supplies and also make monetary donations through local organizations to support the veterans around the holiday season.

Gary Vertichio, commander of the in Sayville, acted as the emcee and also thanked the veterans for their service and spoke about the importance of keeping the traditions of these ceremonies going.

Joe White, commander of the 433, urged people to make donations to the veterans but warned of some scams. He suggested those interested, donate directly to the VFW and American Legion. "All of our donations go to help disabled veterans who need assistance," he said.

Local organizations, including the local scouting troops, placed wreaths at the memorial to honor the veterans.