Eighth graders from East Rockaway High School joined members of the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars on Dec. 3 to honor those lost during the attack on Pearl Harbor. The annual remembrance ceremony was held at Joseph F. Carrigan Point at the East Rockaway waterfront, where the school community gathered to pay tribute to the lives lost on Dec. 7, 1941.

Led by American Legion Commander Tony Donato, the solemn ceremony featured a moving performance of TAPS by trumpet player Pat Iulluci. Representatives from the American Legion, Ladies Auxiliary, Sons of the American Legion and VFW shared songs and remarks, creating a meaningful tribute to the service members who perished that day.

East Rockaway Mayor Gordon Fox addressed attendees, along with Assistant Superintendent Sean Murray, who spoke on behalf of the East Rockaway school district.

Students played a central role in the commemoration, reading the Federal Proclamation and participating in the ceremonial laying of the wreath. As the wreath was placed into the waters below the point, it served as a powerful symbol of remembrance and respect for the fallen.

The annual ceremony continues to be an important tradition for East Rockaway, bringing together students, veterans and community members to ensure that the memory of Pearl Harbor endures for future generations.