A Homecoming for a Hero

On a crisp evening, the Bellmore-Merrick community lined the streets to welcome home one of their own, Marine Cpl. Kevin Vaughan.

The North Merrick Fire Department shut down Jerusalem Avenue at Shaw Drive and, with the help of several other fire departments, draped flags every block until the entrance of Wenshaw Park, where Vaughan lived.

The Garden City Marine Corps Color Guard, the American Legion and bagpipers preceded the car that Vaughan was riding in. Friends, family members and even strangers waved flags and cheered as Vaughan came down Winifred Drive.

A visibly emotional Vaughan emerged from his father's car and was greeted by friends, family and some of the most important people in Nassau County.

"You are what is right with America. You are a great American. When I saw you pulling into the driveway with your emotions – it was felt in everybody's heart around here," Sen. Charles Fuschillo, R-Merrick, said.

Rep. Peter King presented Vaughan with an American flag that was flown over the capital building in his honor, while Assemblyman Dave McDonough, R-Merrick, bestowed upon Vaughan the New York State Conspicuous Service Cross. In addition, Legis. Dave Denenberg, D-Merrick, proclaimed March 9 "Kevin Vaughan Day" in Nassau County; Hemsptead Town Supervisor Kate Murray gave Vaughan a key to the town and Tom Riordan of the Merrick American Legion Post 1282 presented Vaughan with a Marine cover. Angie Cullen, Gary Hudes and Legis. Norma Gonsalves, R-East Meadow, were also on hand to welcome Vaughan home.

"I think there is a higher office in the U.S. then president and that is patriot. We are all here to say...that you are a patriot," said Denenberg.

Steve Arriaga, president of the Wenshaw Park Civic Association and one of the main organizers of the event, said, "This is a very special day in our community. Kevin, you are our hero and we salute you today."

An overwhelmed Vaughan addressed the crowd, saying, "I love you all and this is the greatest day ever. Thank you very much for doing this for me."

Vaughan was wounded during his second tour in Afghanistan when his convoy was ambushed by a road-side bomb on Sept. 28. After undergoing several surgeries, he tragically lost his leg on Dec. 9.

"We are so happy to have him home," said Vaughan's mother. "I am so lucky and so thankful that my son is alive and has so much support. I just want to thank all of you."

Kevin Braun of the American Legion was touched by the turnout.

"It is great to see so many people here. This man put his life on the line for us. It is amazing to see the amount of love and respect here," he said.

Joe Baker, president of the South Merrick Community Civic Association, told Patch that the event made him feel "proud to be an American. This is overwhelming and it makes me feel proud to be part of this community," he said.

Tom Nizza, also a Merrick resident, added, "There was a great turnout here. I am so happy that so many people came to welcome him home. People like him make this a better place to live."