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On Sunday, December 6, 2015 members of VVA Chapter 421, their guests, and friends, decorated a Christmas Tree on the grounds of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Park on Martling Ave. and Manor Road in Staten island. The tree trimming is an annual event hosted by Chapter 421 celebrating the holiday season and also honoring the 85 souls of the Staten Islanders killed in the Vietnam War.  As the bright sunshine bathed the memorial, Chapter President Gene DiGiacomo initiated the trimming of the tree.  Members and guests began decorating the tree with ornaments and patriotic bows.  The bows were made by Georgina Russo, wife of Chapter member John Russo.  While the mood of the event has a festive tone it still maintains the solemn respect for those inscribed on the monument’s walls.  This solemn respect and theme was demonstrated as George “Sully” Sullivan led the crowd in a toast to the 85 souls reiterating that they will never be forgotten.