Threats of rain and thunderstorms did not deter Farmingdale residents from coming out in full force to celebrate the annual Memorial Day Parade on Monday, May 28.

The parade, which began at 10 a.m. on Bethpage Road, wound to Main Street, continued along Conklin Street and ended at the Village Green outside Village Hall. Those marching in the parade included members of local police and fire departments and their bands, several Girl and Boy Scout groups, members of the Farmingdale-Bethpage Historical Society, the Sons of Italy - Columbus Lodge, the Howitt Middle School and Farmingdale High School Marching Bands, the Knights of Columbus and other local organizations and participants.

Immediately following the parade, members of Corp. George Benkert Jr. Post 516 Veterans of Foreign Wars observed "Operation Silent Witness" to honor WWII veterans by planting a tree at the post home right outside of Village Hall.

Residents, their families and friends were appreciative that weather cooperated for all who attended and enjoyed the parade.

-M. E. Kane