RYE HONORED ITS WAR DEAD ON MEMORIAL DAY
On Memorial Day, under sunny skies and with a record-sized crowd, the City of Rye paid tribute to military personnel who lost their lives in service to their country. The parade on Purchase Street was organized by the Rye American Legion Post Auxiliary Commander Robin Latimer and featured Legionnaires, marching bands, cyclists, classic cars, Rye’s Boys and Girls Scouts, school groups, teams, and local government officials.
American Legion Post 128 Commander Fred de Barros led the Memorial Day ceremony at City Hall. Mayor Josh Cohn, US Congressman George Latimer, NYS Senator Shelley Mayer, and NYS Assemblyman Steve Otis delivered stirring and memorable remarks.
Principal Speaker
Valerie Livingston, a Rye resident since 1992, was this year’s principal speaker. She became the city’s first female judge in 2020 and full-time judge in 2023.
Bob Fox of Rye received the American Legion Americanism Award in 2025.
Terry McCartney read the Roll of Honor; Tim Moynihan read the “Oldham Letter”; and Rev. Deacon Katie Lawrence led the Invocation.
Eagle Scout Mark Pellegrino presented his work to the Legion Post detailing the grave sites of nearly 200 veterans buried at Greenwood Union Cemetery. This book is a literal roadmap to honor veterans buried there.
Charlotte Brown from Rye High School won the John M. Kingery Memorial Day Essay Contest with her essay, “What Memorial Day Means to Me.” James LaBerteaux from Resurrection School recited the Gettysburg Address.
Tadgh O’Brien of Rye Boy Scout Troop 2 was recognized as a Rye Eagle Scout and received the American Legion Good Citizen Citation.
Robin Latimer sang beautifully at the ceremony.
Photos below. Some news coverage so far can be found here: https://myrye.com/2025/05/photos-rye-memorial-day-parade-ceremony/
City of Rye video: https://ryeny.new.swagit.com/videos/344087
Rye, NY American Legion Post 128 