The two-seater convertible was bearing down the intersection going a little too fast. The only thing standing between that vehicle and a large group of Memorial Day parade marchers, including veterans, scouts and the West Babylon School Band, was a volunteer auxiliary police officer by the name of Neil Sperill. His only defense against a careless driver were two large, orange traffic cones, his skill and his observation.

The officer was quick and alert. As he watched traffic coming from two other sides, he saw the two seater and motioned the driver to slow down even before the vehicle got within a thousand feet of the marchers. Fortunately the driver saw the officer, and did slow down.

As the car passed the intersection, the officer peered down into the vehicle, made note of something and ordered the driver to pull over.

"Put your seat belts on please." he said. The occupants complied and were on their way.

Watching Sperill direct traffic with grace and ease, and working to maintain a safe environment at Arnold Avenue and Great Neck Road that morning brought to mind the wonderful work of these Auxiliary Police volunteers. Their efforts within our communities cannot be overstated. They often leave their families and their homes and risk their own safety to protect the public’s. On Memorial Day, for example, half a dozen parades within the Town of Babylon began at almost the same time with dozens of major intersections requiring the presence of an officer. Their work at these intersections helped to alleviate the pressure on the Suffolk County Police Department, freeing up Suffolk Officers to respond to other calls for assistance.

To each of the volunteers who were out there every day, and to all our Auxiliary Police Officers, we extend our thanks. To Officer Sperill, a special thank you. You did a fantastic job.