Yorktown police with a representative of United for the Troops. Photo courtesy of the Yorktown Police Department.
Yorktown turned grief into action as the community rallied around the annual Captain Kenneth Sgroi Act of Kindness Day, a tradition that blends remembrance with hands-on support for neighbors in need.
This year’s effort, led by the Yorktown Police Department, featured a donation drive benefiting United for The Troops, which sends comfort items to service members overseas, and the DiNoia family, who lost their Yorktown home in a devastating fire on February 1.
The day of service is named after Captain Kenneth Sgroi, a respected Yorktown police leader remembered for his humility, work ethic, and deep sense of duty.
“He was there for all of us, physically and morally strong, always professional, with a tremendous, sharp wit and sense of humor,” said Yorktown Police Chief Robert Noble during a March 16 ceremony. “If you needed someone to get the job right, Kenny was your guy.”
Noble said the annual drive is a direct reflection of how Sgroi lived his life.
“Captain Sgroi lived his life with a sense of duty and a spirit of kindness that we strive to honor every day,” Noble said. “This drive is more than just a collection of goods; it’s a way to keep Ken’s memory alive by doing exactly what he would have done—stepping up for those in need.”
Residents and police benevolent organizations contributed cash, snacks, toiletries, batteries and new crew socks for United for The Troops, and gift cards for local delis, restaurants, and major retailers to assist the DiNoia family.
“The Kenny Sgroi Act of Kindness Day really embodies what Yorktown is about,” said Supervisor Ed Lachterman. “I always talk about how great our community is about answering the challenge, stepping up and being there when we’re needed. It’s what makes Yorktown so special.”
