Christmas comes early for Somers family in need of extra joy

SOMERS, N.Y. - For the family of the late Detective Sergeant Frank Lore, the holiday season didn’t feel as bright this year.

But thanks to the efforts of a special organization and the generosity of local first responders, Christmas came early.

Frank Lore dedicated more than 26 years of his life to public service, ultimately rising to Detective Sergeant in the MTA Police Department. Known for his integrity, leadership, and devotion to both his family and his fellow officers, he was widely respected throughout the law enforcement community.

In February, Lore tragically passed away while on medical leave for a cardiac condition.

Survived by his wife, Diana, and their eight children: Juliana, Frankie, Christopher, Rocco, Joseph, Daniella, Luca, and Nicholas, Lore is remembered as a devoted father and a man whose larger-than-life personality and infectious smile left a lasting impact on everyone he met.

With family and friends gathered on the lawn of their Somers home on Dec. 13, the neighborhood was suddenly filled with the sound of blaring sirens. A procession of police cars and fire trucks with flashing lights soon followed, signaling the arrival of a First Responder Christmas Parade presented by Operation Santa’s S.L.E.D.

The final arrival — a Somers fire engine — also brought a special guest. Santa Claus, along with some dedicated helpers, was on hand to personally deliver sacks of presents and assist in spreading holiday cheer.

Lore’s youngest son, Nicholas, was also the recipient of a special gift. The 5-year-old was presented with his own miniature motorized police cruiser, which he promptly took for a patrol around the yard.

Operation Santa’s S.L.E.D. is a statewide organization dedicated to supporting law enforcement families facing serious illness, injury, loss, or hardship. The parade was one of nine Christmas deliveries taking place across New York State this season, supporting 26 children from law enforcement families. Of those, 15 are experiencing their first Christmas without a parent. In Somers, the event focused on surrounding Lore’s family with visible support from the law enforcement and first responder community.

Participating agencies included the Somers Volunteer Fire Department and Somers Fire District, the MTA Police Department, Yorktown Police Department, Westchester County Police Department, New York State Police, New York State Environmental Conservation Police, and the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office.

“It feels like a dream,” Diana said afterward. “To see Nick’s face. I thought there would be one fire truck and maybe one police car. It really brightened our holiday in so many ways.”