Hampton Bays School District continued its tradition of honoring veterans by conducting a flag ceremony at the elementary school on Oct. 18 in recognition of the service of Marvin "John" Siebold.
Mr. Siebold, the second merchant mariner to be honored by Hampton Bays, is a Hampton Bays resident of more than 60 years. The avid surf fisherman is an usher at St. Rosalie’s Church. He and his late wife, Janette, raised six children in the hamlet and their daughter Mary Winkler still lives in Hampton Bays.
Paying respect to Mr. Siebold, who attended the raising of the flag in his honor, District Superintendent Lars Clemensen said that he and his fellow veterans "exemplify honor, sacrifice, courage and commitment."
During the ceremony, four members of the Class of 2018 read Mr. Siebold's biography. Sasha Andrews, Erol Barry, Patrick Gilbert and Kenia Torres told of the veteran's life and his bravery in service. Additionally, Jack Billingham and Alison Pensa of the Class of 2020 read from their Patriot's Pen essays on "What Patriotism Means to Me." Julia Denig of the Class of 2018 sang the national anthem and Tyler Davies and Melanie Laurenco, also of the Class of 2018, led the Pledge of Allegiance.
Also present at the flag ceremony were September honoree Francis "Smitty" Smith, members of the American Legion Hand-Aldrich Post 924 and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5350, Suffolk County Legislator Jay Schneiderman, Southampton Town Supervisor Anna Throne-Holst, Southampton Town Deputy Supervisor Frank Zappone and Southampton Town Board member Chris Nuzzi. Mr. Schneiderman, Ms. Throne-Holst and Mr. Nuzzi all spoke about the importance of service and the heroism of American veterans. Mr. Schneiderman and Ms. Throne-Holst also presented proclamations in honor of Mr. Siebold's service.