On a bright Monday afternoon, with the nation's 250th birthday on the horizon, Kramer Lane Elementary School in Bethpage marked Flag Day with a celebration honoring local first responders and those who have served, or who currently serve in the armed forces.
Students gathered in the circle outside the school dressed in red, white and blue, each holding a small flag. At 2 p.m., the sound of bagpipes rang out from the parking lot as former Bethpage administrator Kevin Healy, in full traditional dress, led a parade of servicemen and women around the front drive while students cheered. EMTs, police officers, firefighters and veterans marched alongside their Kramer Lane kids – sons, daughters, grandchildren among them.
Following the parade, the Kramer Lane band and chorus performed the national anthem. Superintendent Dave Schneider welcomed guests and thanked them for their service before introducing two student council officers, who presented a $2,718 check to Tunnel to Towers. The donation was the result of a joint fundraising effort across all three Bethpage elementary schools, each of which hosted a car wash.
Attending service members received a small token of gratitude, and the celebration continued with a reception in the cafeteria.
