This Memorial Day, Nassau County is asking residents to pause not once, but twice, to honor the region’s large and historic veteran community.
All 71 fire stations across the county will sound their alarms and flash their sirens to signal two moments of silence in tribute to those who gave the ultimate sacrifice defending the country.
The synchronized observances will take place at 12 noon and at 6 p.m. this coming Monday, a yearly tradition since County Executive Bruce Blakeman took office in 2022.
“There’s a lot of things that we do on Memorial Day that are celebrations and fun things to do with our family — but we should never forget the reason for Memorial Day,” Blakeman said outside of Valley Stream Fire Department Headquarters.
“The importance of Memorial Day and remembering those 18, 19, 20 year-olds who never got to enjoy their life, never got to have a family or graduate college, never got to celebrate or enjoy holidays with their families — they they died for us and for this country — and the least we could do is make sure that while we’re celebrating Memorial Day weekend, we take some time out to remember them in a solemn way, and a respectful way,” Blakeman said.
The County Exec urged every resident to stop what they’re doing, whether it be barbecuing, swimming, or even driving — to pull over and take the few seconds that it takes to remember and honor the area’s veterans who never came home.
“When you hear that siren — wherever you may be — please take a moment, stand at attention, be silent, and think about those who gave their life for America,” Blakeman said.
“If you’re in your car and it’s safe to pull over, do so and turn off the radio.”
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