COLUMNS The War Dead, Stolen Valor and Housekeeping

Several days will have passed before you read this, putting distance between the joyous unofficial start barbecue season and summer. NO! It is not a happy or joyous weekend at all. It is a somber observance of those who lost their lives in battle, the war dead. It is a day to reflect on the cost of freedom, and express gratitude for their selfless dedication to protecting our nation. So, technically, yes, you can give thanks and reflect on your thankfulness for your freedom to stand in your backyard and grill your burgers and that would be acceptable and appreciated. Other opportunities carved out throughout the year to honor those who are actively serving (Armed Forces Day on the third Saturday in May) and veterans (Veteran’s Day annually on November 11).

Thank you to those who read my inaugural column last month. I received plenty of starting line praise and some curiosity about my own military service and questions about some of the organizations that I mentioned. I cannot tell you the story of my own service experience in one sitting, encapsulated in 500 words, so I will share some of what I carry with me on my own journey each month, weaved into my thoughts here. Not all of it is for the retelling, whether it be my own modesty or that it is simply not fit for public consumption.

In telling my own story about life in the military, for an 18-year-old from the Midwest, I tell it with honor and pride. I am humbled by all that I have had the opportunity to do and see. I believe in not aggrandizing it. Yes. I have the chest-full of ribbons and medals and a stack of honors that rival most, which I am, to this day, tested by my own brothers- and sisters-in-arms who want to know if I can defend wearing the Navy Marine Corps Achievement Medal or the Korean Defense Service Medal, or to civilians who are just awed by the mashup of pretty colors and want to learn what it all means. You bet. For this, I am happily willing to educate and defend my honors. I know what I achieved and what I endured. I have never felt compelled to inflate that or misrepresent that and for a long time, I believed that all of those who also served around me held their service record to that higher standard as well. I cannot understand those who inflate their stories to the point of no return, who pass themselves off as more than is true. To them I say, your selfless service to country is enough. You have what you have and it is equally honorable, whether you bagged supplies in a warehouse or you bagged bodies in the field. Stolen valor tarnishes the adequate records of many others and the stellar achievements of some. End of story.

Coming up in our veteran community:

June 3: Centennial Birthday Parade for two WWII veterans, Gennario “Gary” Iorio and John “Taylor” Diehlmann, Seaford

June 4: VFW Post 9592 Installation Dinner, Bellmore

June 6: Veterans Summer Stand Down,

Freeport

June 8: Veterans Project Yoga Flow and Mediation at the American Airpower Museum

June 10: WWII Weekend at the American Armor Museum

June 16: Scotty’s Offshore Shootout fishing tournament to benefit Hooks for Heroes, Point Lookout

June 17: Ranger Lead the Way Fund, Inc. of Manhasset Heroes Gold Classic at Plandome Country Club

July 1: Rolling Thunder of Long Island charity concert, Bellmore

–Christy Hinko, managing editor at Anton Media Group and U.S. Navy veteran

HOME & DESIGN Lifesaving BBQ And Grilling Tips

As New Yorkers gear up to celebrate Memorial Day weekend, many will be turning on their grills for the first time this season. The Firefighters Association of the State of New York (FASNY) recommends that all New Yorkers follow some basic rules and tips to avoid accidents and injuries. Never hesitate to call for help when needed.

Emergency departments nationwide have seen a significant rise over the past decade in the number of visits from grilling injuries, with an 18 percent rise in patients being treated in emergency departments for grilling-related injuries over the past 10 years.

Data shows that from 2014-2018, fire departments responded to an annual average of 10,600 home fires annually involving grills, hibachis, or barbecues. This includes 4,900 structure fires and 5,700 outside or unclassified fires. These fires resulted in an annual average of 10 civilian deaths, 160 civilian injuries, and $149 million in direct property damage.

“We want all New Yorkers to enjoy fun and safe celebrations, which means reviewing safety rules and tips for grilling,” said FASNY President Edward Tase, Jr. “Your local fire department is ready to help, no matter how big or small the problem. Don’t hesitate to call your local fire department because a few minutes can make a big difference.”

Keep everyone safe by following these important tips:

• Propane and charcoal BBQ grills should only be used outdoors.

• The grill should be placed well away from the home, deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.

• Keep children and pets at least three feet away from the grill area.

• Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grills and in trays below the grill.

• Never leave your grill unattended.

• Always make sure your gas grill lid is open before lighting it. Visit www.fasny.com for more information.