In a moving tribute to military service and sacrifice, the Merrick Jewish Centre hosted a remembrance ceremony on Sunday, November 8, honoring Ensign Laurence D. Solowey, the World War II Navy serviceman for whom Jewish War Veterans Post 652 is proudly named.
The morning program brought together members of the Merrick Jewish Centre, Jewish War Veterans, and families to recognize America’s veterans and pay special tribute to a young man whose life was cut tragically short in service to his country.
The ceremony opened with morning prayers led by Cantor Warschawski, followed by welcoming remarks and introductions by members of the Merrick Jewish Centre. Gary Glick, Commander of Jewish War Veterans Post 652, led the presentation of the colors and the Pledge of Allegiance. Commander Glick also gave a brief synopsis of the history of the Jewish War Veterans. Charlie Goldberg served as master of ceremonies.
The program also featured a presentation on the history of Jewish Americans in the United States military, with Leonard Holtz providing the historical perspective.
Laurence Donald Solowey, known affectionately as Larry, was born in New York City on October 2, 1924. His family later moved to Merrick and became members of the Merrick Jewish Centre, where Larry celebrated his bar mitzvah in 1937. Friends remembered him as one of the most likable students in the school.
After enlisting in the Navy, Larry entered flight training. Tragically, on August 13, 1945, during his first solo flight at the U.S. Naval Air Station in Sanford, Florida, his aircraft crashed, taking his life at just 20 years old. His death came only two days before the end of World War II. Ensign Solowey was buried at Arlington National Cemetery with full military honors.
One of the most emotional moments of the ceremony was the reading of a recent letter from Larry’s niece, Ellen Solowey, describing the lasting impact of her uncle’s death on their family. Ellen recalled seeing photographs of Larry in his Navy uniform throughout her grandparents’ home, while the family rarely spoke about the painful loss. Her uncle’s death profoundly affected the family for decades. Ellen shared memories of visiting Larry’s grave at Arlington National Cemetery with her father and placing stones on his tombstone, which bears a Star of David.
Ms. Solowey expressed her gratitude that the Merrick Jewish Centre and Jewish War Veterans continue to remember her uncle, emphasizing the importance of passing these stories of sacrifice on to future generations.
Although unable to attend, Merrick Jewish Centre Rabbi Josh Dorsch shared remarks delivered by Cantor Warschawski. Drawing on his own family’s experience with military service, Rabbi Dorsch reflected on the courage and sacrifice of veterans and the importance of expressing gratitude. He highlighted the Jewish value of hakaras hatov, recognizing and appreciating the good others have done for us.
A special highlight was the presentation of an American flag that had been flown over the United States Capitol. New York State Senator Steven Rhoads and Nassau County Legislator Michael Giangregorio presented the flag to the Merrick Jewish Centre in recognition of the Veterans Day 2026 tribute.
The program concluded with JFK High School sophomore and All-County vocalist Leilani Selvin performing the National Anthem, followed by Cantor Warschawski singing HaTikvah, the Israeli national anthem.
By Ed Freeberg
