Smithtown East Stays Liam armStrong

Red shirts adorned students, friends, family and staff Friday evening during a celebration of life for Liam Armstrong, a senior at Smithtown East High School who was killed in a tragic train accident in March.

The event, held at East High School, was to celebrate Liam's life and to dedicate a bench in his name that will be placed in the commons area of the school. Students were also working to raise funds to refurbish the commons area.

Friday evening's torrential rains weren't enough to deter the crowd, which packed the cafeteria. Volunteers fromt the St. James and Nesconset fire departments manned the grill while a D.J spun tunes for the crowd. Bag pipers from the Nassau County Police Emerald Society Pipe Band, which Liam's father is a member, started the evening off, marching into the cafeteria playing.

Family friend, Sue Hart, led the dedication ceremony. Her son Dakota and Liam were best friends since the second grade. 

"It is important for people to celebrate the way he lived rather than for people to remember how he died," said Hart. "Liam was one of a kind. He was a sarcastic, funny, charming guy. You couldn't help but love him."

Liam's brother Connor attends East and his two other siblings, Ian and Bridget will also attend. East principal Edwin Thompson said the gardens and bench would be a place for them and others to reflect and remember Liam.

"The beginning of the commons project is a lasting tribute to Liam," said Thompson. "Barbara and Chris (Liam's parents) are such amazing people. They have been heroes in the healing process for everybody. They have supported our students during their own tragedy. It is truly amazing," he said.