Several families attended the Memorial Day event at the Blvd. Gardens housing complex in Woodside, Queens.
For Salvador Rodiles, a resident of the area, he attended with his son because he says it is important that they understand what this day means: It is good for them to know that people who have obviously served for the country are celebrated.”
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For several years, the residents of this residential complex have honored the men and women who have lost their lives in battle.
At the event, which began with a veterans’ march, followed by the national anthem and a prayer, elected officials also showed up to pay their respects.
And according to Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez: “Here in Queens we have a very large community of veterans and we are here to support them. It is very important to keep those memories and for our community and for the families that were impacted by their sacrifices.”
Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez was present at the event.
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According to the American Legion Post 1836 organization, in this area under zip code 11377 is where the most human losses were recorded after the Vietnam War; so each year they will continue to pay tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice and gave their lives for the nation.
Another neighbor who has been present at recent ceremonies is Leonardo Castillo: “It was very exciting, some neighbors were even there, they are veterans, it is a pride to be here more than anything for them.”
Neighbors of Queens on Memorial Day.
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The Day of Remembrance (Memorial Day) was declared a holiday in 1971, when the federal government dictated that the fallen would be commemorated on the last Monday of May and since then some 50 years have passed.
Another neighbor, Luis Fajardo, has been witnessing this commemoration in his building for ten years: “It is a great honor to participate and live in this great country that has given us an opportunity by welcoming us, it is a pride to remember our heroes of their struggle they gave us freedom”.
Some veterans and the family of some of the fallen heroes still live in this housing complex. They say that they will continue to hold these events so that they are never forgotten.
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