Pearl Harbor Memorial Ceremony Slated For LI's American Airpower Museum

FARMINGDALE, NY — The American Airpower Museum is set to host its annual "Dropping of the Roses" Pearl Harbor Memorial Ceremony from 10:30 a.m. to noon Thursday, Dec. 7. The Long Island Air Force Association (LIAFA) will conduct the ceremony.

The American Airpower Museum has provided space for this event each year ever since it opened its doors in 2000. Dec. 7, 2023 marks the 82nd Anniversary of the Japanese attack on the U.S. Navy Fleet based at Pearl Harbor.

Col. (ret.) Bill Stratemeier of LIAFA will offer welcome remarks, which will be followed by a solemn ceremony remembering all who served at Pearl Harbor, including a special tribute to World War II veterans who will receive certificates from Long Island elected officials.

"Ceremonies such as this help keep the history of World War II alive," the museum wrote in a news release. "Americans should never forget the contributions and sacrifices of our veterans. Each year we welcome public attendance, FREE OF CHARGE, because public support strengthens the missions of AAM and LIAFA to honor veterans and educate younger generations about U.S. military history. By showing your support, you’re also helping AAM preserve the Museum's historic aircraft. Help 'Keep ‘Em Flying!'"

In keeping with the "Dropping of the Roses" tradition began by Joseph Hydrusko in 1970, the blessing of 82 American Beauty Roses (including one extra white rose for 9-11) will commemorate the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941. It will include Color Guards from the Navy Reserves and veterans organizations.

A Chaplain will conduct a "Blessing of the Roses," "Taps" will be played and roses will be presented to the museum's pilot, who will depart 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 the "Dropping of the Roses" Ceremony. Admission is free between 10:30 a.m. and noon. After the ceremony, admission is $15 for adults, $12 for seniors and veterans, and $10 for kids 5 to 12. No tickets or pre-registration is necessary.