Shirley, NY – May 25, 2017 – The revitalized gateway to the Tri-Hamlet community was completed in 2013 and highlighted by the statue of William Floyd. Since completion of the site in Shirley, Legislator Browning has been holding an annual flag raising ceremony to appropriately retire deteriorated flags and replace them with new ones prior to Memorial Day weekend. She was joined by her Chief of Staff Josh Slaughter, veterans from American Legion Post 1533 and VFW Post 414, as well as local Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts.
The bronze statue of William Floyd, donated by local Sculptor Santo Matarazzo who passed away in 2008, is now the centerpiece of the William Floyd Square in Shirley. The project was championed by William Floyd Community Summit Beautification Committee Chairwoman Patricia Matthews and Legislator Kate Browning. The corner has been maintained by William Floyd Community Summit volunteers and continues to highlight the rich history of the William Floyd Community and helps bring a sense of pride to all who enter the neighborhood.
During the ceremony everyone was taught how to properly fold an American flag and new flags were raised by our veterans and scouts. The pledge of allegiance and national anthem were performed.
“It’s important that our children are taught respect for our flag,” stated Legislator Browning. “Many brave men and women have died fighting to protect it. As Memorial Day approaches it’s a special opportunity to raise new flags at a location that teaches us so much about our community’s history in securing our liberties. I want to thank the William Floyd Community Summit for all they do to keep this site looking great and for our scouts and veterans that joined us to raise these new flags. God Bless America.”