The veterans of the United States certainly know the price of freedom. It is one of sacrifice, of leaving all that you love in order to fight for it. In Veterans Association hospitals in Northport and St. Albans, some veterans continue to sacrifice every day. Their constant payment for freedom is evident in the wounds they endured during the horrors of war.

Some veterans from various Nassau County Veterans of Foreign Wars and American Legion chapters visit their fellow comrades in those hospitals, helping to bring some cheer and companionship.

Traditionally, the Town of Hempstead holds its Veteran's Salute each year around Independence Day to recognize those town residents who have displayed care, compassion and respect to their fellow veterans.

On Sunday evening, June 29, the Town of Hempstead presented the Town's Veteran's Medal to five worthy veterans who have not only served to protect this country's freedom, but continue to serve through their commitment to helping other veterans and their families.

"Our veterans throughout the ages have fought to preserve our freedoms and it is only appropriate that we honor these heroes as part of our annual Independence Day celebration," said Town of Hempstead Supervisor Kate Murray. "This event is a highlight of the year and we are proud to be able to recognize these individuals' extraordinary service."

The recipients of this year's Veteran's Medal are Calvin Bryant of Roosevelt, Frank Cordomeyer of Franklin Square, Glen Rogers of Freeport, Robert Spicer of Wantagh and James Whitehead of Rockville Centre. All have shown care, compassion and generosity in their quests to improve the quality of life for those who have also served.

In addition to honoring the five veterans who have given selflessly of their time to help their fellow veterans, the town also made a special presentation to Margaret Gilman of Garden City, one of 1,800 women who enlisted and played a crucial role in the country's defense as a Woman Air Force Service Pilot during World War II. Gilman and others paid their way to Texas to train as Woman Air Force Service Pilots (WASPs). The women were needed due to a shortage of male pilots.

Gilman was one of approximately 1,000 women who completed the training successfully. The WASPs were eventually stationed at 120 Army bases where they served as flight instructors, flight tested aircraft, towed targets for anti-aircraft practice and transported cargo.

"WASPs were true volunteers," Murray said. "They were not paid and they were denied military benefits. Finally in 1977, they were granted long overdue veterans status."

Gilman became interested in flying in the fall of 1941 when she began private lessons. In the winter of 1944, she received a notice to report for WASP training. After her tour of duty, she returned home to Long Island. A year later, she took a job with Taylorcrafts, giving demonstration plane rides at Flushing Airport. For Gilman's service to her country and her spirit of patriotism and adventure, the Town of Hempstead presented her with a Distinguished Service Award.

The criteria for the Town of Hempstead Veterans Award is based solely on humanitarian contributions made to fellow veterans. It does not take into consideration military record or activity.

The town also commemorated the 50th anniversary of the end of the Korean War by recognizing the Korean War Veterans Association, Nassau County Chapter One for their service both during the war and as veterans.

Supervisor Murray also presented Lesley Gore in concert. Gore is most known for the hits Judy's Turn to Cry and It's My Party. The ceremony concluded with a fireworks display.