One volunteer's mission to make sure local veterans are never forgotten
The tributes can be seen throughout the community, including at Raynor Beach County Park.
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More than 600 banners honoring local veterans are on display throughout Lake Ronkonkoma, recognizing the men and women who have served the country across all branches of the military. The tributes can be seen throughout the community, including at Raynor Beach County Park.
Behind the effort is Bobby, a volunteer with the Lake Ronkonkoma Heritage Association who has spent the past five years helping hang and maintain the banners. Bobby says he has hung approximately 3,200 banners and takes them all down as well. Although he doesn’t live in the Lake Ronkonkoma community, he says volunteering is his way of thanking those who served. “I want to do it for my part to say thank you,” said Bobby.
The display continues to grow as more families learn about the project and request banners honoring their loved ones. “In fact, it keeps getting bigger and bigger because people keep seeing it and saying I want my son or father, or grandfather, I want a banner, so the banners keep coming,” said Bobby.
For Ronkonkoma resident, Lenore Baake, the tribute hits close to home. Her grandfather and his brother are honored side by side on Hawkins Avenue. Baake says the community couldn’t make the project happen without dedicated volunteers like Bobby, adding that the goal is to make sure veterans are never forgotten.
The banners serve as a lasting reminder of the local heroes who have served the country, not just on Veterans Day, but throughout the year.
