As they do annually, residents of Glen Cove gathered at the Doughboy Monument on 11/11 at 11 a.m., to honor veterans of American wars. This year's City of Glen Cove Veterans Day Guest of Honor, chosen to represent all the community's veterans, was Joseph J. Fencl, a World War II and Korea decorated veteran, introduced by Mayor Mary Ann Holzkamp.

A true American hero, when Joe took to the podium, he spoke not of himself, but of today's soldiers serving in harm's way. He asked attendees to always remember the troops and suggested that members of the community join the members of VFW Post 347, 15 Hill Street, in the post's ongoing program of sending phone cards overseas.

Joe and his wife, Mary, who recently celebrated 57 years of marriage, have lived in Glen Cove for the past six years. Joe is an active member of the Glen Cove VFW Post 347 and the American Legion Post 76.

Mayor Holzkamp then introduced Eagle Scout George Weck who was given a citation for his participation in the Bugles Across America program, which honored our nation's heroes. George was also commended for his hard work in completing a project for his Eagle Scout honors. Mayor Holzkamp said, "By collecting and submitting the names of over 10,000 servicemen and women who are now included in the World War II Memorial in Washington, D.C. you earned Eagle Scout status and made your hometown, Glen Cove, very proud."

It was then George's turn to speak. The young man spoke not of himself, but in praise of his hero, Felix Sangenito, beloved longtime Glen Cove resident, musician and music teacher who recently passed away.

The ceremony ended with the traditional 21-gun salute and the playing of Taps in echo, the echo of Felix Sangenito heard in the minds of all.