Wantagh American Legion Hosts 9/11 Ceremony

Wantagh American Legion Post No. 1273 held a ceremony Saturday morning that paid tribute to the victims of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks on the ninth anniversary of that solemn day.

The ceremony, which was held in front of the Wantagh American Hall on 3484 Park Avenue, had bells rung for each Wantagh resident who was a victim of the 9/11 attacks. One of the 9/11 victims from Wantagh was Joseph Mistrulli, who worked for "Bronx Builders" in the World Trade Center, and his wife Philomena was on hand for the ceremony. After going to Ground Zero for the first anniversary of the 9/11 attacks in 2002 Mistrulli said she has been attending the Wantagh American Legion's annual ceremony instead because of its more intimate setting.

Mistrulli said she was grateful for the many local elected officials who attended Saturday morning's ceremony. Delivering remarks at the ceremony were Congressman Peter King (R-Seaford), State Assemblyman David S. McDonough (R-North Merrick), State Senator Charles Fuschillo, Jr. (R-Merrick), Nassau County Legislator Dennis Dunne, Sr. (R-Levittown), Nassau County Legislator David Denenberg (D-Merrick) and Hempstead Town Clerk Mark A. Bonilla.

"These men are with the community and have a heart," said Mistrulli moments after the conclusion of the ceremony.

"September 11th was the first act of war in the war against Islamic terrorism," said Congressman King in his speech during the ceremony. "This is a war that is going to go on for many years."

"We will never forget those who lost their lives on that day," said Joe Stein, a chaplain for Wantagh American Legion Post No. 1273. "We pray that our country will remain strong and committed to rooting out all those who commit evil acts of terrorism."