Organization
The Rockville Centre Parade Emblem
The Parade emblem is a fusion of Irish-American Culture and Traditions as represented by the American and Irish Flags. The Irish Wolfhound predates Celtic Ireland and is a powerful symbol of majesty and pace. The Irish Wolfhound is the mascot of the Fighting 69th Regiment whose motto best epitomizes the temperament of the Wolfhound “Gentle when stroked, fierce when provoked.” The Wolfhound on the emblem is ‘Desmond’ the first Rockville Centre Parade Mascot. The Harp and the Shamrock are traditional symbols that are held dear to many Irish Americans. The Harp represents the great musical heritage of Ireland while the Shamrock is symbolic of Ireland’s Religious Traditions. Irish American Artist Bernie O’Boyle did the Artwork on the emblem.
The Grand Marshal Brooch
The Rockville Centre St. Patrick’s Parade Committee commissioned this Brooch in 2003 to be presented to the Grand Marshal each year to wear during the Parade Day. The Brooch is back dated to the First Parade, and all the previous Grand Marshal names are recorded in the case. The idea of the Brooch is to continue the tradition of succession in terms of those who have previously been honored as Grand Marshal.
The Brooch design is from an original concept designed by John and Maureen English. The Brooch was made by Mullingar Pewter Co. Westmeath, Ireland, and was graciously donated to the Rockville Centre St. Patrick’s Parade Committee by Kathleen Alcock, of Kathleen’s of Donegal.