Afghanistan 13 fallen soldiers flag replacement with the Bellmore Patriots

🇺🇸 4th Annual Commemorative Flag Replacement Ceremony & BBQ 🇺🇸

On Sunday, August 24, 2025, the community gathered at the Bellmore Train Station to honor the 13 U.S. service members who made the ultimate sacrifice during the August 26, 2021 Afghanistan withdrawal.

The day began with a flag replacement caravan to the Seaford Oyster Bay Expressway overpass, where 13 flags proudly flew in memory of these fallen heroes. After the ceremony, participants continued on to Tappan Beach in Sea Cliff, NY for a patriotic BBQ filled with fellowship, reflection, and remembrance.

With guest speakers Steve Rhoads and Michael Giangregorio, this event brought together veterans, families, and community members to ensure these names and sacrifices are never forgotten:
• Staff Sgt. Darin T. Hoover
• Sgt. Johanny Rosario Pichardo
• Sgt. Nicole L. Gee
• Cpl. Hunter Lopez
• Cpl. Daegan W. Page
• Cpl. Humberto A. Sanchez
• Lance Cpl. David L. Espinoza
• Lance Cpl. Jared M. Schmitz
• Lance Cpl. Rylee J. McCollum
• Lance Cpl. Dylan R. Merola
• Lance Cpl. Kareem M. Nikoui
• Navy Corpsman Maxton W. Soviak
• Army Staff Sgt. Ryan C. Knauss

🙏 This ceremony stands as a lasting tribute to their bravery, sacrifice, and the freedoms they defended.