Golden’s Bridge FD Memorial Day Plans Canceled Again

GOLDEN'S BRIDGE, NY — Fans of the Golden's Bridge Memorial Day Parade and cookout are in for a disappointment, but the fire department will still honor the spirit of the holiday.

For the second consecutive year, the Golden’s Bridge Fire Department has canceled its plans for the annual Memorial Day Parade and community barbecue due to coronavirus concerns. Golden’s Bridge firefighters will, however, gather around the American Legion Monument in front of the firehouse, for a private ceremony to honor military members who died in service to their country.

“Despite increased numbers of people with COVID vaccinations and the state relaxing gathering restrictions, out of an abundance of caution we continue to maintain our personnel-only policy at the firehouse,” Golden’s Bridge Fire Chief Al Melillo said. “This policy helps protect the health, safety and well-being of our firefighters in order to keep them on the front lines for fire, medical and other 9-1-1 emergency response in our community.”

This Memorial Day, firefighters will participate in a remembrance ceremony that will give special recognition to the 76 Golden’s Bridge residents who served in World War I and World War II. Those names are engraved on the bronze plaques of the American Legion War Monument.

During the Memorial Day ceremony, Golden’s Bridge firefighters will bring the American flag to half-staff while tolling the fire bell for two minutes. Floral wreaths of red, white and blue carnations will be placed on stands on either side of the American Legion Monument.

“It will be a toned-down, but dignified, event that offers proper acknowledgement to those who gave their lives for our country,” Fire Commissioner Joe Simoncini explained.

Although the Memorial Day ceremony is closed to the public, residents are invited to pay their respects at the American Legion Monument. Visitors are asked not to park in front of the firehouse doors or block the entrance and exit to the parking lot. Visits should be limited to two minutes and wearing a face covering is required. Absolutely no guests should enter the property if there is emergency-related activity in progress or if the firehouse alarm sounds.