Mount Kisco Honors Military at Memorial Day Parade

Less than ideal early-morning weather could not keep Mount Kisco from having its annual Memorial Day parade, which drew throngs of spectators, and honored past and present members of the military

The parade, held as sunshine was out, was preceded with a solemn remembrance ceremony at the local American Legion monument at Oakwood Cemetery, complete with laying of wreaths and taps. The march itself was a procession of a color guard, veterans and soldiers in active duty, followed by a broad selection of people in the community. They included the Lions Club, the Mount Kisco Historical Society, firefighters, the fife and drum corps, the Knights of Columbus and elected officials. The marchers completed their circuit at the war memorial on Main Street, followed by a larger meeting for remembrance.

Speakers implored attendees to remember Memorial Day for its meaning: To honor those who have served in wars past, along with those who are currently serving their country.

Mayor Michael Cindrich, who served in the Marine Corps, said people were gathered to “celebrate America, our freedom and the true meaning of Memorial Day.’

The holiday’s meaning was the central topic that two local girls wrote about in essays that they presented to the audience.

Elizabeth Sabia, a student at Mount Kisco Elementary School, said that when she thinks of the truly meaning of Memorial Day, “I try and put myself in the place of a child who has parents in the war.”

“Memorial Day means that we remember the memories of our veterans that sacrificed their lives to protect the citizens of America,” said Angela Fasulo, a student at West Patent Elementary School.

As veterans who serve in World War II continue to pass on, and as memories of the war become more distant, Robert Mamlin came with a speech to remind people of what happened.

Mamlin, who is the father of Village Trustee Jean Farber, recounted serving in Europe under Gen. George S. Patton, an experience that included helping to liberate the Nazi concentration camp of Dachau and witnessing the Holocaust first hand.

The experience, Mamlin recounted, “will live with me until the day I die.”

Despite witnessing atrocities, Mamlin spoke of a better future, recounting how years later he met a survivor of Dachau. He also noted that “one of the proudest moment of my life,” was when he visited the Holocaust Museum and viewed military division flags involved in liberation, including his.

Along with the accounts and speeches, wreaths and flowers were presented at the war memorial, which honors local individuals who served in World War I, World War II, Korea and Vietnam. Members of the local American Legion and Ladies’ Auxillary spoke, along with Rev. Francis Anane from St. Francis of Assisi, who gave a benediction. Salvatore Natoli providing a booming rendition of “The Star Spangled Banner” and sung “God Bless America.”

Video is attached of the initial tribute, the students speaking and of Mamlin's speech.