On Friday, March 3, American Legion Post 1711 held a ceremony honoring the achievements of a select group of hometown heroes. Achieving results in charitable work, the seven recipients showed true "Americanism," as Post Orator Commander Andy Booth stated. The honorees came from all walks of life.

The ceremony, which is now in its 30th year, has been an active part of the community since the inception of American Legion 1711, which was formed to remember those who have gone missing or were killed in action in the wars fought by Americans - and those America continues to fight.

After the Pledge of Allegiance and a memorial prayer for those serving in active duty in the military, the half-hour ceremony proceeded to extol the accolades of the recipients, beginning with Jim McHale of the Knights of Columbus.

McHale runs multiple Down Syndrome programs for children and adults in the area, helping to organize bowling, dance and holiday parties. The next event being planned is a bowling party at South Levittown Lanes in March.

Mike Williams, a Little League coach who helps instruct ball players with Down Syndrome was the next recipient. Andy Booth mentioned that Williams also "helps handicapped children all summer long with baseball," teaches catechism classes and actively participates in the community.

Next on the recipient list was Mary 'Polly' Dwyer, president of the Levittown Historical Society. Presented once again by Commander Booth, 'Polly,' as she is referred to, received the award for her "tireless dedication to fleshing out, and teaching the citizens of the community" about the rich history in Levittown. Dwyer coordinates the Levittown Museum, located at Levittown Memorial Education Center, and continually updates it with new exhibits and features. Currently there is an exhibit on World War II. The museum is open on Friday nights and Wednesday afternoons and usually has guides available for tours.

The next two recipients were absent, but warranted merit as well. The first, high school senior Robert Howells, is an Eagle Scout of Troop #323. His parents received the award based upon his efforts in helping nursing home patients in Cold Spring Harbor, and being a leader for the youth group at Wantagh Baptist Church.

The next award was given to the Wantagh Volunteer Fire Department, which was unable to make an appearance to receive their award, which Tom Dilorio afterward joked, "This is a bad sign if this place sets on fire," which elicited much laughter from the crowd of nearly 60 people.

The final Americanism award went to members of the 8th Precinct of the Nassau County Police Department, for their tireless efforts in protecting the community, which they gladly accepted.

The Veteran of the Year Award, presented by Legislator Dennis Dunne Sr., was held for last. Recipient and Veterans Council Member Phil Blum was recognized for his tireless work remembering those who have fallen and currently are participating in wars. While not an active member, he does participate in relief efforts on the North Shore, marches every year in the Memorial Day Parade and helps teach flag etiquette programs throughout Nassau County.

The ceremony, which was also attended by Hempstead Town Councilman Gary Hudes, continues to successfully recognize the outstanding charitable work done by annual honorees. By honoring these recipients, it brings into focus the true spirit of Americanism.

The American Legion Post 1711 was founded in 1948 and consists of 400 paying members. They survive to this day to honor America's soldiers.