Memorial Day honors our fallen heroes

Memorial Day is a solemn day meant to honor the memories of the men and women who sacrificed their lives fighting for freedom in the United States. The day also recognizes the loss of families and friends of soldiers who died in times of war. This year, the city honored the memory of United States Army Specialist Dennis Brian Murray, and Marine Staff Sgt. Cherise Herrera, the parade’s grand marshal.

Murray was born Dec. 12, 1947 and attended Eastern Military Academy, which is now Oheka Castle. There, he developed award-winning horsemanship skills. He was drafted into the Vietnam War in 1968, and felt strongly about the need to serve his country. He died in battle on June 12, 1969.

The day also celebrated Marine Staff Sgt. Cherise Herrera, the parade’s grand marshal. She has received numerous awards and honors recognizing her service in Afghanistan and the National Defense and Good Conduct medals. She is an active member of the city’s veteran community.

RIFLE SALUTES, ABOVE, are among some of the traditions used to honor fallen veterans.

SHAWN MURRAY, LEFT, and Carol Murray, honored Dennis Murray, a Vietnam veteran who died in 1969.

STUDENTS FROM THE Glen Cove Youth Bureau, far left, participated in the parade on their day off from school to highlight their appreciation for veterans.

JEFFREY PRAVATO, RECEIVER of taxes, left, Joseph Saladino, town supervisor, and Vicki Walsh, councilwoman, visited Gaynor Park to celebrate the completion of its upgrades.

Gaynor Park field upgrades complete

Extensive improvements have been completed at Gaynor Park in Glen Head. New synthetic fields were installed at the southernmost full-sized field, complete with a new underdrain system. Field striping accommodates both soccer and lacrosse playing for boys and girls. The east baseball field also had its infield upgraded to synthetic turf and was striped for multiple age groups.

To provide for most use by children of all ages, the southernmost field was striped for regulation soccer and striped for two youth-size soccer fields, as well as for boys and girls lacrosse.

While synthetic fields have an average useful life of approximately 8-10 years, they are less expensive than the long-term cost of maintaining natural grass and a dirt surface. Synthetic fields also provide the potential for fewer cancellations of games due to inclement weather.

Grillin’ for Good raises over $5K

Thomas Knoell, of Douglas Elliman

Real Estate, partnered with Rocco Romito, of Glen Head Hardware, to host a community fundraiser called Grillin’ for Good for the Real Men Wear Pink campaign to support the American Cancer Society.

On April 29 they invited neighbors, friends and Glen Head residents to a community barbecue at Glen Head Hardware, serving up ribeye steaks, shrimp, burgers and more while holding a raffle to raise money. Despite the pouring rain, the event was a huge success, selling over 1,200 raffle tickets and raising nearly $5,500.

The event was held in honor of Knoell’s mother, Maria Knoell, who died of cancer over 10 years ago. The organizers thank everyone who was involved for their help and support for the fundraiser.