They signed a blank check… and we are the benefactors.
Who are they? They are the brave men and women who bravely served this nation through its darkest moments, or protected it in time of peace. The Nassau County Veterans Monument Fund, Inc., a private, not-for-profit organization, offers places to remember them on Walls of Honor to ensure that future generations know the bravery, sacrifice and courage of these brave Americans. And what a beautiful turnout it was, on Saturday, June 22 for the 2019 Walls of Honor dedication, which took place at Veterans’ Plaza, Field 6A, in Eisenhower Park. Stainless steel panels, mounted on granite walls, engraved with veterans’ names both living and honored deceased, line the entrance to the Walk of Flags.
On this day, local dignitaries attended as well as a large public showing. Color guards processed from various veterans’ organizations, followed by all reciting our Pledge of Allegiance, the singing of the National Anthem, a rifle squad salute and the playing of Taps. On this day, 260 additional names were unveiled.
Any veteran of any U.S. involved war is eligible. It makes no difference whether you served in combat or peace-time. Veterans of all states are eligible, as well as those veterans of our heroic Coast Guard and Merchant Marines.
The Walls of Honor will be an on-going construction. As long as veterans apply, there will be room for their names. There is no time limit or ending. Names received by the end of each year are normally unveiled in late June of the following year. Among this year’s honorees are:
- Frank Busa, past post commander of Williston American Legion Post 144 and current post commander VFW Post 1688. Frank, is one of 10 brothers and three sisters. Frank served along with seven of his brothers, and this year, his brother Charles’ name was added.
- Angelo Grande, past Nassau County commander, American Legion of Glenwood Landing Post 336.
- John Egan, chaplain, of American Legion Post 1033, of Elmont. His father and two brothers also served in the military.
- American Legion auxiliary members in attendance: Williston Unit 144: Rosanne Spinner, and MaryAnn Busa, past Nassau County president.
Submitted by the Nassau County American Legion Auxiliary.