On a beautiful Memorial Day in Rye, the City honored deceased veterans following the Memorial Day parade. The crowd in attendance was the largest in recent memory.
The Rye American Legion Post Auxiliary organized the parade down Purchase Street which featured Legionnaires, marching bands, horses, cyclists, classic cars, Rye’s Boys and Girls Scouts, and local government officials.
American Legion Post 128 Commander Fred de Barros led the ceremony at City Hall.
Our National Anthem was sung by the choir leadership at Christ’s Church. Rev. Mary McCarthy of Christ’s Church led the Invocation.
Mayor Josh Cohn, County Executive George Latimer, NYS Shelley Mayer, NYS Assemblyman Steve Otis, and County Legislator Catherine Parker all offered welcoming remarks and greetings.
The principal speaker was US Navy veteran, and Rye resident Howard Heyel. The theme of his talk was “Lest We Forget.”
At this year’s ceremony, James “Duke” Dianni received the 2023 Rye American Legion Americanism Award. Commander Fred de Barros said, ““Duke” Dianni exemplifies the values of the American Legion Americanism Award. This award recognizes a citizen who is a living example the American Legion values of law and order, the raising of wholesome youth, an educated and law-abiding citizenship, and respectful observance of patriotic holidays and remembrances.”
Tim Moynihan read a poignant letter written by a fellow US Marine to the parents of Lt Philip Oldham’s who was KIA in 1943 in Solomon Islands.
Legionnaire Terry McCartney read the Roll of Honor.
Cash Berner of Resurrection School read the Gettysburg Address.
The John M. Kingery Memorial Day Essay Contest Award and $1000 was presented to Karenna Chader of Rye High School who submitted the winning essay on “What Memorial Day Means to Me.”
The program also included recognition of Rye Eagle Scouts who received he American Legion Good Citizen Citation: Daniel Pellegrini, Brendon Kirk, and Harrison Gelinas.
Michael Talbott of Rye High School played Taps.
Robin Latimer, president of the Rye American Legion Auxiliary led the crowd in God Bless America. Following the ceremony at City Hall, Commander de Barros and Post Officer Tim Moynihan conducted a brief ceremony at the Shaughnessy Memorial at Rye Recreaction.
Some local press coverage:
City of Rye Video: https://ryeny.new.swagit.com/videos/232923
Shaughnessy Memorial
Overall Recap of Memorial Day in Rye
Photos below.
Rye, NY American Legion Post 128 