The 84th Annual Great Neck Memorial Day Parade is set for Memorial Day, Monday, May 26. Same time, same place! Presented by the Great Neck Memorial Day Parade Committee, Inc., the parade and ceremonies begin early morning, at 9:30 a.m.

This year's grand marshal is longtime Great Neck resident Richard Boyle, a former Navy officer. Mr. Boyle enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1946, and he served in the Pacific Fleet in 1947, the largest peacetime naval task force assembled during the Cold War. Following an honorable discharge, he joined the Advanced Artillery ROTC, training with the 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg, S. C.. Upon becoming a lawyer, he was commissioned a Second Lieutenant Field Artillery in the USAR. After special training he was eventually appointed vice commandant of the 1163rd USAR Military Occupation School, as well as assistant commander of the 353rd Civil Affairs Unit, both in New York. Mr. Boyle served 28 active tours of duty over 43 years.

Richard Boyle's decorations, medals and commendations include: individual commendations of merit and appreciation for Operation Desert Storm; American Defense; American WWII Victory; Asiatic Pacific; American Cold War; Army Reserve Medal with three clasps; Army Meritorious Service Medal with three clasps; New York State Commendation Medal; parachute badge; and pistol and rifle marksman badge.

The special Memorial Day ceremonies will be held about 10:15 a.m., immediately after the parade passes in review before the dignitaries assembled at the Eldridge Memorial in the Village Green, right on Middle Neck Road in the Village of Great Neck. Ceremonies are expected to last about 45 minutes, concluding with the veterans organizations and a contingent from the Great Neck volunteer fire departments marching to nearby All Saints Cemetery for a final tribute.

Come and see local organizations, schools and children, volunteers, bands, and public officials as they march in honor of the day! Just line up along Middle Neck Road at about 9 a.m. and enjoy!

The Annual Great Neck Memorial Day Parade and ceremonies are conducted under the auspices of: the Gilliar-Nowill Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #372, Charles A. Fowler Jr. American Legion Post #160, United States Merchant Marine Academy, Alert Engine Hook and Ladder Hose Co. #1, and Vigilant Engine and Hook and Ladder Co.