May 28, 2024 By Queens Post News Team
Members of the Catholic War Veterans Post 870 paid tribute to fallen service members on Monday during their annual Memorial Day observance in a solemn procession through the heart of Woodside.
The day’s events unfolded across four Woodside locations, starting at the Vietnam War Memorial at 57th Street and Woodside Avenue. A wreath-laying ceremony marked the beginning of the tribute, with local veterans, families, and community members gathered to honor those who served.
From there, the assembly moved to the Catholic War Veterans headquarters on 61st Street just north of Roosevelt Avenue, where Post 870 hosts its regular meetings and support activities for veterans. The headquarters served as a venue for a brief service, including speeches by veteran leaders and local dignitaries, emphasizing the ongoing needs of veterans and their families.
The tribute continued at the intersection of Woodside and Roosevelt Avenues, at a war memorial that stands as a testament to local heroes who have served in various conflicts. Participants laid flowers and flags, a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by service members from the community.
The final stop was the iconic Doughboy statue in Doughboy Park, a well-known local landmark honoring World War I soldiers. The statue, depicting a soldier in World War I garb, was surrounded by community members in a circle of remembrance.
The event concluded with a playing of “Taps,” the haunting bugle call that traditionally signals the end of a military funeral.
The Woodside Catholic War Veterans Post 870’s annual Memorial Day tribute is a cornerstone event for the community. It brings together residents of all ages to remember and reflect on the bravery and sacrifice of military personnel who have fought and died in the service of the United States.