MASSAPEQUA, NY – May 6, 2007.   The early morning chill did nothing to deter the members of the Col. Francis S. Gabreski Squadron from participating in AMVET post 88 of Massapequa’s annual Loyalty Day Parade to salute those veterans who are serving and those who have served.

Following the Squadron Color Guard were the Officers and Cadets of the Gabreski Squadron.  The Color Guard was under the command of c/CMSgt Stephanie Filiberto, the Officers were led by Maj Louis Fenech, Squadron Commander and the Cadets were commanded by c/A1C Melissa Orlowski.  The 2 mile route passed many Massapequa residents who cheered the Unit as they passed.

“It was particularly moving to see the many Veterans who lined the route stand and salute the colors as they passed” said Major Fenech.  “The sense of patriotism and service to country was very strong” he continued.

The unit rendered honors to the Grand Marshall and other dignitaries as they passed the reviewing stand.  They were then introduced by the event’s Master of Ceremonies as they marched by to the parade’s end.

“I feel that it is important to the development of our cadets to be part of patriotic and community events like this parade” said Major Fenech. “We are looking forward to marching in this parade again next year”.  

The next parade that the Squadron will participate in will be on Memorial Day in Patchogue”.