BY BRYAN AHRENS
A group of local Cub Scouts brought some holiday cheer to veterans of the New York State Veterans’ Home in St. Alban, Queens last Monday.
Gloria Dei pack 489 of New Hyde Park sang holiday carols for the residents of the veteran’s home after assistant den leader Melba Iavarone recommended the idea, having worked there 12 years ago as a physical therapist.
“It’s very important for the kids to know how other people feel,” Iavarone said. “The holidays are not just about toys and gifts but about giving your time to other people.”
She said the children exchanged questions with the veterans after the performance.
“They learned how it feels to serve the country. It inspired them,” Iavorone said.
The pack’s leader, Harry Ruiz, said the visit is not only important for the children but also the veterans living in the home.
“It makes them feel really happy,” Ruiz said. “It’s very touching. They feel happy that the children remember them.”
Ruiz said the veterans in the home served during multiple wars around the world. Many of the veterans fought in Europe, Germany and Korea, he said.
“It really gives them an inside perspective,” Iavorone said.
Iavorone said she believed it was important to expose Cub Scouts to new experiences.
“They are taught character building and how to expose themselves to different environments,” she said. “It’s very important for them to know how other people feel.”
