Western Queens honors Americas heroes past and present

Western Queens honored those who died in the line of duty at a Memorial Day parade sponsored by the Saint Sebastian Catholic War Veterans of Woodside. The parade began at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial and concluded in Doughboy Park in Woodside, where Councilman Jimmy Van Bramer (D-Sunnyside) spoke. “Today, we remember those who have bravely fought in defense of our nation,” Van Bramer said. “All Americans owe a debt of gratitude that can never be repaid to the men and women that defend our freedoms.” In nearby Sunnyside Gardens, a Memorial Day barbecue offered activities and performances for kids of all ages. Face painting, arts and crafts and an inflatable joust were just some of the activities that helped usher in the unofficial start of summer.