To honor those who’ve served our country, Rhythm on Rye, the Rye High School a capella group, volunteered to sing at Veterans Appreciation Day.

To honor those who’ve served our country, Rhythm on Rye, the Rye High School a capella group, volunteered to sing at Veterans Appreciation Day. The event, held at Playland May 27, was organized and hosted by Vito Pinto, director, Westchester County Veterans Service Agency.

 

The high school group opened the ceremony with selections from the repertoire of songs they’ve performed in national competitions, including solos by Sophie Hessekiel, Bradley Krapes, and Kathleen Nicholas. After Mr. Pinto delivered the welcome address, a color guard marched in with the American and military flags while Rhythm on Rye sang “The Star Spangled Banner” in beautiful four-part harmony. County Executive Robert Astorino gave the keynote address.  

 

In the closing song, “God Bless the USA”, Robbie Keller and Ariella Reidenberg had solos. After a closing prayer, Mr. Pinto sang the introduction to “God Bless America” and invited everyone to join him in singing the rest. A bugler playing taps closed the service in remembrance of those men and women who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our country. 

 

The Marines flew helicopters overhead, landed them in the field next to the Edith Read Wildlife Sanctuary, and allowed the public to see them up-close.