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Honoring all veterans while paying special homage to New Yorkers who fell during the Civil War, the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument at West 89th Street and Riverside Drive has long been a cherished gathering place on days of patriotic remembrance.
On Monday at 10 a.m., this tradition continues with a Memorial Day event planned in conjunction with Fleet Week, dedicated to honoring our nation’s military personnel who died serving in the United States Armed Forces.
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The event will commence with a musical prelude by the U.S. Marine Corps Band at 10 a.m., followed by a processional featuring the Piper New York Caledonian Club, Sons of United Veterans of the Civil War and Veteran Corps of Artillery at 10:30 a.m. The Graphics Campus Navy Junior ROTC Color Guard will conduct the Posting of the Colors, accompanied by the National Anthem performed by the USMC Band.
Retired Commander Peter Galasinao of the United States Navy and President of the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Memorial Association will deliver welcoming remarks. Guest speakers will include City Council Member Gale Brewer, Commissioner of NYC Department of Parks & Recreation Sue Donoghue, State Assembly Member Linda Rosenthal, City Council member Shaun Abreu, New York State Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal, Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine and Commander Paul C. Spedero.
Thomas J. Principe, retired Brigadier General will lead the Presentation of Wreaths, paying tribute to all those who have given their lives for their country. The New York Caledonian Club Pipe Band will perform laments before a moment of silence. Association President Peter Galasinao will deliver closing remarks, followed by a recessional by the USMC Band.
In January we reported that the mayor’s office had allocated $62.4 million in funding to restore the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ monument to its former glory. Originally completed in 1902, this cherished monument was designated a New York City landmark in 1976 and a New York State landmark in 2001.
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