POUGHKEEPSIE – American Legion Lafayette Post 37, under the command of Nathan “Nate the Great” Grant and the City of Poughkeepsie united to honor fallen soldiers and sailors in a service at Soldiers Memorial Fountain in the City of Poughkeepsie on Sunday afternoon. Congressman Pat Ryan (NY-18), a 2004 graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point was among the elected officials in attendance at the solemn ceremony.
Celebrating his 97th birthday at the service was Ernie Arico, a veteran of both World War II and the Korean War.
Ryan spoke of the sacrifices made by the fallen heroes and the importance of keeping their memory alive. Pointing to a silver bracelet on his wrist, Ryan told the attendees that he lost two fellow Army soldiers and will never forget the sacrifice made by Sergeant Keith Nowicki and Major Brian Kavanagh.
Poughkeepsie City Mayor Marc Nelson performed the emcee duties in the service that included a color guard from the Air Force Junior ROTC from Poughkeepsie High School.
In addition to Congressman Ryan, remarks were also given by Senator Rob Rolison and Assemblyman Jonathan Jacobson. Kevin Hathorn, representing Dutchess County, gave the POW/MIA Table Reading to explain the reason for the table with a place setting for one, to honor those that will never return from their service. “In Flanders Fields” was recited by American Legion Chaplain Daphne Carlise, and former VFW Post 170 Commander Tommy Zurhellen recited “Just a Common Soldier.”
Commander Grant concluded the service by playing Taps.
Video collage including Commander Grant’s rendition of Taps
