The “Dough Boys” stand at attention. Fred G. Camp American Legion Post 265 of Garden City was honored to re-dedicate the Rainbow Division Monument in memory of Veterans.

A ceremony was held at the monument at Clinton and Commercial Avenues on Veterans’ Day. Major Gen. Thomas Garrett, present commander of this famed Infantry Division, was the main speaker. John Donovan, past Commander of Post 265, was Master of Ceremonies. This site 87 years ago was the location of Camp Miles, where more than 27,000 troops from 26 states trained before embarking to Europe.

Douglas McArthur was the first commander who coined the nickname the “Rainbow Division” since it represented so many states. Wreaths were places at the monument by the many organizations in attendance.

These men dressed as the “Dough Boys” from World War I A colorful parade marched to the dedication and included the Hofstra R.O.T.C. Band; Nassau Police Bag Pipe Band, Scout Organizations and the Rainbow Division re-enactors dressed in W.W.I. uniformans.

Chaplain Joseph Keating gave a touching speech. He summed up best the reason for the re-dedication: We are here today to honor those who understood that freedom is not free and there are no atheists in Fox Holes.

The Hofstra Honor Guard and Nassau Police Bagpipe Band marched in the parade. There are many reasons to honor those who fought and died for US. We sometimes forget that you can manufacture weapons and ammunition but you can’t buy valor or pull heroes off an assembly line. This was a special day to honor all Americans in our Armed Forces who fight and defend our freedom.

Past Commander of Post 265 John Donovan, Major General Thomas Garett and Colonel Matt Boldenberg The Rainbow Division monument before the ceremony Commander Frank Nedelka began the ceremony. Post Commander Frank Nedelka at podium Post 265 Chaplain JosephKeating gave a touching speech.