Long Islanders honor war dead despite rain, cancellations on Memorial Day

The morning rain, gloomy skies and canceled parades didn’t keep Long Islanders from coming out to honor servicemen and -women who made the ultimate sacrifice this Memorial Day.

Solemn ceremonies that usually take place on grassy fields near war monuments were moved to indoor spaces. Veterans were recognized for their service and the names of the fallen were read aloud.

But there was also a strong sense of pride among crowds — many clad in red, white and blue — excited for a summer of celebrating the 250th anniversary of the  United States.

A 20-minute drone light show at Jones Beach delighted visitors, with illuminated patriotic symbols in the sky and music simulcast along the boardwalk, according to state parks officials.

While several morning parades were called off due to rain, the afternoon Smithtown Fire Department's Memorial Day parade went on as planned as showers finally halted. Fire trucks and vehicles, community groups, elected officials and others followed the route from Main Street and Singer Lane to Town Hall.

Marchers in Patchogue also ignored the gray skies for a Memorial Day parade down East Main Street, topped with a ceremony at the American Legion Hall on South Ocean Avenue.

Freeport canceled its parade but continued with ceremonies at Freeport High School for the village’s 107th Observance of Memorial Day and the Armed Services.

In Garden City, services were moved to Cluett Hall at the St. Paul’s Recreational Complex. It was packed with people holding small American flags, the middle school marching band and veterans in dress uniform.

"This is very meaningful for us, because it is the representation of freedom for us and the opportunities we were given here," said Vindia Etwaroo, of Garden City, who attended with her husband, De, and their 2-year-old son, Nadav. Their 12-year-old, Aayan, played tuba in the marching band.

She pointed out her family is of Indian Guyanese descent and came here years ago for a better life. Etwaroo said she is teaching her young sons to honor those who gave up their lives so others could have a better life.

"We're proud of what America stands for and continues to stand for, even with all the turmoil," she said. "This is our home. We will continue to love it, cherish it, and raise our boys to honor it, no matter what."

Richard Ryder, an 80-year-old Vietnam War veteran, said he was happy to see the large turnout in Garden City but also wants attention paid to veterans who are struggling and feel forgotten.

"I want people to think about those who are not getting help with mental health and other things they need," said Ryder, who was a sergeant in the Army’s 199th Infantry Brigade.

Janelle McLaughlin, who served in the U.S. Navy for 14 years, attended with her 5-year-old son, Zachariah. They wore matching white U.S. Navy uniforms. She is the fifth generation in her family to join the Navy, and served on the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman and the amphibious assault ship  USS Oak Hill.

"It’s very heartwarming to see this many people come out, even in the rain," she said. "It’s extremely important to remember those who served, our sea brothers and sisters. Some lost their lives in service and then some lost their lives afterward."

McLaughlin, 38, said people need to know about the high rates of suicide among veterans and how more resources are needed.

Earlier in the morning, a community Memorial Day service was held at the Cathedral of the Incarnation, which also serves as the starting point of the parade.

Michael Sniffen, dean of the cathedral and a Navy chaplain, said the service has roots that precede the official Memorial Day holiday.

"For decades, the village has been gathering here in the cathedral to say prayers to those who have died in the nation's wars, to give thanks for the life of sacrificial service that allows us to live together in peace as Americans today," Sniffen said.

"In our life together, as human beings, it's all about relationships and sharing and love," he said. "It’s not about ideologies. It's not about theories or strategies. It's really about how we treat one another at the most fundamental level in our community."

NewsdayTV's Virginia Huie contributed to this story.