The Town of Hempstead proudly takes part in the celebration of our nation's independence with our Annual Independence Day Celebration and Veterans' Salute. The salute will occur Saturday, July 1, at 7:30 p.m. The evening will feature a ceremony honoring veterans and the presentation of a special Defender of Freedom Award to USMC Lance Corp. Troy P. Grassi of Hempstead. Hempstead Town will proudly welcome him home from his military tour in Iraq. The evening will also include a free concert featuring disco diva Gloria Gaynor and will conclude with a spectacular fireworks finale. Pre-concert attractions include classic and vintage cars on display from the Greater New York Region of the Antique Automobile Club of America and the Back-In-Time Cruisers and an impressive array of military vehicles and equipment presented by the 2nd Marines, 25th Battalion of Garden City.

The Town of Hempstead Veterans Committee has selected seven deserving honorees for the Veteran's Medal. Established in 1994, the Veteran's Medal is awarded to those who have volunteered countless hours for the benefit of their fellow veterans. The award winners for 2006 include residents from Franklin Square, Wantagh, Levittown, Elmont, Seaford, North Merrick and Freeport.

In addition, a special presentation will be made to a woman from Baldwin who will be receiving the Special Service to Veterans Award.

The 2006 Town of Hempstead Salute to Veterans will take place at Town Park Point Lookout, 1300 Lido Boulevard, Point Lookout. The rain date for the event is Sunday, July 2.

I hope to see you at Town Park Point Lookout as we celebrate our nation's independence and honor those who have served our country.