Merrick Couples Renew Vows at American Airpower Museum

In addition to vintage planes, there was love in the air at Farmingdale's American Airpower Museum this Valentine's Day.

Ten couples, made up of vets from World War II, Vietnam, Korea and Iraq, renewed their vows at the museum as part of Supervisor Kate Murray's "GI Love Stories" event. Rockville Centre's Mormile Florist provided flowers for the ceremony and Bellmore's Taste of Home Bakery donated a custom cake for each couple.

"We are honored to be able to host this Town of Hempstead event," said Jim Vocell, vice president and head of flight operations at the museum. "It reminds all of us that the veterans community represents families throughout the region comprised of men and women who came home from military service to live the American Dream."

Each couple walked up the aisle as Supervisor Murray read their wartime love story. After all vows were renewed, there was a champagne toast and cake cutting.

"The men and women here today have had their romance battle tested, proving love truly conquers all," Murray said.

Larry and Alice Pinto, of Merrick, renewed their vows after 63 years of marriage this Valentine's Day at the museum.

"Humor and compromise," Alice said. "That's the secret."

The two met when Larry went "looking to meet girls" at a Rockaway basketball game. They said it was love at first sight, but first Larry was called to service in the marines in WWII.

For two years, their love survived through letters. When he returned, he proposed right away, 65 years ago this year. They have six kids together, 14 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

"We moved into the new housing in Merrick back in 1949," Alice said. "We've lived in the same house since then."

Carol and John Ball, also of Merrick, were on hand to renew their vows this Valentine's Day.

It was love at first bite, according to this couple. They met at a pizza place before John was drafted in 1965 for the Vietnam War.

He sent her engagement ring in the mail and they were married in 1968, 34 years ago.

Today, John is active in the Northport Veterans group and says the secret to a long marriage is simple: "Laughter and always saying yes."