Generally Speaking: Fort Hamilton history comes alive with Colonel Davidson!

The Bay Ridge Historical Society celebrated the 162nd birthday of Bay Ridge on December 16 at the Shore Hill Neighborhood Center, on 91st Street between Colonial Road and Shore Road. Society President Thomas McCarthy offered the following champagne toast, “So let us lift our glasses high, and drink a toast, as we herald and celebrate the 162nd birthday of Bay Ridge. May she continue to flourish and prosper.”

Colonel Joseph Davidson, resplendent in his dress blue uniform, joined the salute, and later took part with McCarthy in the ceremonial cake-cutting ceremony.  Davidson was also the society’s guest speaker where he traced the history of Fort Hamilton from its early beginnings via projected vintage photos.

Among the attendees were attorney Mike Connors, vice president of the Civil War Round Table of New York, who hosts the radio show, “Ask the Lawyer” on Saturday evenings over AM 970 The Answer; and his wife, Beth, a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution.

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West Point cadets came down to New York City Fire Department headquarters in Brooklyn to help wrap holiday toys for children at Fort Hamilton, and to fold and frame American flags that flew over the World Trade Center. The flags were presented to organizations that donated food for four NYPD officer funerals. Also joining the wrap party were 911 family members, FDNY family members and veterans from the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) chapter.

We joined our fellow officers and committee members of the United Military Veterans of Kings County who sponsor the annual Brooklyn Memorial Day Parade, for their annual Christmas/Hanukkah party in the dining room at the LB Spumoni Gardens, on 86th Street in Gravesend. Among the happy celebrants were board Chair Ray Aalbue, President Peter DeAngelis, Vice President Connie Ranocchia and Treasurer Liette Pedraza. Key committee members include Joseph Tiralongo, Barry and Irene Berger, Vince Sampieri, Cary Spickler, George Boston, Pete DeAngelis, Jr., Frankie Marra and Dyan Berger.

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Yuletide greetings to our Christian friends and readers for a joyous, blessed and very Merry Christmas. May this festive occasion bring you and your family peace and happiness.