Eastchester Remembers and Honors Heroes in Annual Ceremony

Police officers and family members gathered in front of Sunday to take part in the annual Eastchester Police Department memorial and awards ceremony.

The ceremony honors officers who excel in the field and exemplify the values of the Eastchester Police Department. The ceremony also takes a moment to recognize current or retired policemen that have passed away in the last year.

The intimate ceremony in front of the former Oakridge clubhouse began with a solemn procession by members of the police department through the , ending just shy of the fallen officers memorial outside of the department entrance.

“Let us pay respect to those who stepped up to protect us but never returned home to their loved ones at the end of their tour,” said Anthony S. Colavita Eastchester Town Supervisor. “Let us continue to honor the officers who continue to hold the line.”

“Let us admire the dedication and work done by all, especially the friends and families of those who have fallen,” said New York State Assemblywoman

Current and retired members of the department laid a wreath on the fallen officers memorial. Another wreath was placed next to Officer Michael Frey’s monument in the plaza. Frey, a six-year veteran of the police force, was 29 when he was killed with a high-powered rifle in 1996 while responding to a call.

The department also took a moment to honor officers that have made a difference in the Eastchester community.

Officers Lisa Graf and Anthony Cerasi both received citations honoring them for their role in the arrest of suspects who broke into and stole items from the Eastchester Volunteer Ambulance Corps. 

“It’s not about the honor, it’s about doing the job,” said Officer Graf, whose grandchildren were in attendance at Sunday’s ceremony.  

Officer Anthony Cerasi, the son of a former undercover narcotics detective in Yonkers, said the ceremony was an important way to unite the police department.

“It keeps us close,” he said.

Police Chief Timothy J. Bonci said it was important for the community to show its gratitude to members of the police department who sacrifice their lives every day to ensure residents are safe.

“It’s great to see everyone come and say thanks,” he said. “These are the people that take care of your homes when you’re out on vacation. They patrol the streets while you sleep and keep your children safe. A little thanks like today goes a long way."