NEWSLETTER
Conducted by the Long Island Air Force Association
Farmingdale, N.Y. -- On Wednesday, December 7, 2022, American Airpower Museum hosts the annual “Dropping of the Roses” Pearl Harbor Memorial Ceremony conducted by the Long Island Air Force Association (LIAFA). The American Airpower Museum (AAM) has provided space for this event each year ever since the Museum opened its doors in 2000. December 7, 2022 is the 81st Anniversary of the Japanese attack on the U.S. Navy Fleet based at Pearl Harbor.
Welcome remarks will be delivered by Col. (ret.) Bill Stratemeier, LIAFA (bstrat@optonline.net, 631-807-4624). This solemn ceremony remembering all who served at Pearl Harbor follows, including a special tribute to World War II veterans who will receive certificates from Long Island elected officials. In keeping with the “Dropping of the Roses” tradition began by Joseph Hydrusko in 1970, the blessing of 81 American Beauty Roses (including one extra white rose for 9-11) will commemorate the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941. Includes Color Guards from the Navy Reserves and veterans organizations. A Chaplain will conduct a Blessing of the Roses, Taps will be played and Roses presented to the pilot, who then departs AAM’s ramp in a vintage military aircraft to drop the Roses over New York’s Statue of Liberty. The public is welcome to attend our “Dropping of the Roses” Ceremony on December 7, 2022. Free admission between 10:30 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. After 12:00 p.m. $15 for adults, $12 for seniors and veterans, $10 for kids 5 to 12. No tickets or pre-registration necessary.
Special News Media Invitation
The program starts at 10:30 a.m. and closes at 12:00 p.m. Ceremonies such as this are important to help keep the history of World War II alive. News Media are cordially invited to attend and cover this event. Americans should never forget the contributions and sacrifices of our veterans. Media support strengthens AAM’s mission to honor our veterans and educate the public about U.S. military history. By getting the word out, you also help us preserve our historic aircraft and “Keep ‘em Flying.” So please join us at Hangar 3!
What: “Dropping of the Roses” at American Airpower Museum at Republic Airport
Where: Hangar 3, 1230 New Highway, Farmingdale, NY
When: December 7, 2022 – 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
How: Media should please call/email Robert F. Salant to confirm your attendance
Photo: Navy Cadets deliver roses to a vintage AT-6 Texan Warbird at AAM to be dropped over the Statue of Liberty (credit: Robert F. Salant, American Airpower Museum)
The American Airpower Museum (AAM) is an aviation museum located on the landmarked former site of Republic Aviation at Republic Airport, Farmingdale, NY. The Museum maintains a collection of aviation artifacts and an array of aircraft spanning the many years of the aircraft factory's history. The Museum is a 501(c)(3) Nonprofit Educational Foundation Chartered by the New York State Board of Regents.
Contact: Robert F. Salant, Public Affairs, (516) 328-3959, (718) 791-4758, rsalant123@outlook.com