A salute to Scarsdale’s vets
On Monday, the ’Dale paid tribute to the brave men and women who served our country so well.
Our deepest thanks A few of the heroes who marched in the parade.
BY DEBORAH SKOLNIK
It seemed only fitting that the weather on Monday was incredible: Our veterans deserve nothing but the best, which is exactly what Scarsdale gave them through its Veterans Day Parade. Before the march began, local dignitaries including Mayor Justin Arest and Congressperson Amy Paulin stood at a podium in Chase Park, expressing heartfelt gratitude for those who put their lives on the line to preserve our way of life. In addition, Scarsdale’s fire and police chaplain said an emotional prayer, which is at the end of this article.
The crowd—composed of residents, Girl and Boy Scouts, fire and police personnel, and others—said the Pledge of Allegiance as the American flag was proudly raised on Boniface Circle. Soon afterwards, it was time for the parade.
Much respect, sir Milton, an Air Force veteran, kindly stopped during the parade for a quick photo.
Escorted by members of the police and fire departments, a small group of proud veterans marched up Popham Road and then left onto Church Lane before ending where they had started, in front of the post office.
Our hero Dominic A. Morelli, Commander, Scarsdale Post 52.
The parade was more than just a brief journey—it was a vital step we take each year to honor those who deserve it most. Thank you for your service.
Veteran’s Day prayer by Scarsdale police and fire chaplain:
God of love, peace, and justice. It's your will for the world that we may live together in peace. You have promised through the prophet Isaiah that one day the swords will be beaten into plowshares. And yet we live in a broken world, and there are times that wars seem inevitable. Let us recognize the humility and sadness, the tragic loss of life that comes in war.
And even so, as we gather here in relative safety, may we give thanks for those that have served with courage and honor, we honor those that are in our presence today that are either inactive or reserve duty; those who have already served and those who paid the ultimate sacrifice while serving. We also honor the families of those who have made the sacrifice by letting know that their families have endured long seasons apart from loved ones, the disruptions of moves and deployments, the stress of being sent to regions engulfed by violence and the repercussions of physical and spiritual and moral injuries for those who have served where the pain of those injuries persist.
We ask that you bring healing where the memories of those traumas are harrowing. We ask that you grant relief where the grief of those losses threaten to overwhelm. Grant us hope. We pray, God of us all, for an end to war and for a new earth where there will be no need for military might. But now we ask your blessing upon all of our veterans and those closest to them that they may know the gift of your presence and the peace that passes all understanding. Amen.