Hicksville has something to be very proud of. Veterans Memorial Park at the Hicksville Middle School is worth a visit. Dedicated workers who have taken care of this park with respect and reverence should be commended.

In the center of the park is a monument dated Memorial Day 1990 - In memory of all the veterans of the armed forces of the United States of America who made the supreme sacrifice we dedicate this area to be known as "The Hicksville Veterans Memorial Park" by the citizens of Hicksville.

On the north side there is a giant stone that has a bronze plaque with the Honor Roll of World War I 1917-1918. This was erected by the citizens of Hicksville and dedicated July 14, 1919. Those who died during this war were honored by the clock tower on the Hicksville Middle School. This tower was dedicated to Joseph Barry, Charles Wagner and Walter Wheeler, "Greater love hath no man than to give his life for his friend," on May 29, 1925. The citizens of Hicksville who were petitioned by the Hicksville Choral Society at that time paid for the clock tower.

On the east side is a huge granite monument adorned by an eagle. It has a bronze plaque that presents the Roll of Honor from WWII: Dec. 7, 1941 - Sept. 2, 1945. On the south side are three monuments. One is a gray marble monument in memory of Hicksville's sons and daughters who served the nation so faithfully in the Korean War: 1950-1953. Another monument of black marble with a bronze plaque honoring the men and women who served our nation in Southern Asia: 1964-1973. There are 10 names listed as well as the inscription "Undefeated on the Battlefield: Loyal and patient in peace time and tribulation."

The third is a white granite monument dedicated to all the brave men and women of Hicksville who paid the ultimate sacrifice in the defense of their country since 1975. There is one name inscribed - CPL Kevin T. Kolm, USMC, Iraq.

An American flag, a POW/MIA flag and a NYS flag fly high above the manicured lawn and shrubs with changing flowers for each season that make this historic landmark so beautiful.

Thankfully, the principal of Hicksville Middle School, Daniel Marquardt; Superintendent of Schools Maureen K. Bright; Director of Facilities and Operations Department David Bell and the board of education have had the vision to preserve the historic middle school building. They have kept up repairs of these facilities through the years and renovation of the façade of the building last year, as well as the renovations of the auditorium with its historic and beautiful WPA murals. I have been a resident of Hicksville for 48 years and marvel at the park and school as I pass by each morning.

Irmgard L. Tuechler