Number of Participants: 19
Hours Donated: 2
Value of Time Served: $1,322
Event Type: Veterans & Military Families
Activity: Schools
Date: May 25, 2026
Location:
Hauppauge High School
Lincoln Boulevard, Hauppauge
NY
About:
Hauppauge High School 11th grade social studies students received a powerful, personal lesson in history as five veterans visited to share their experiences and reflect on the meaning of Memorial Day.
Retired U.S. Navy Lt. Frank D’Aversa, retired U.S. Navy Cmdr. Grace Mehl, retired U.S. Navy Seal and Purple Heart recipient Ron Paccianna, retired U.S. Navy officer and Nassau County Police Detective Michael O’Leary and retired U.S. Army officer, Purple Heart recipient and Gold Star father Clarence Simpson spoke with students about their service and the importance of honoring those who gave their lives for the country.
Throughout the visit, the veterans shared firsthand accounts of their time in Vietnam and other military experiences, offering students a rare glimpse into the realities of service and sacrifice. The discussions were described as moving as students listened to personal stories that brought history into sharper focus. The students also passed around a Purple Heart, giving them a tangible reminder of the sacrifices made by members of the armed forces.
Cmdr. Grace Mehl encouraged students to take time on Memorial Day to reflect. “I want you to spend a minute on Memorial Day remembering those who gave their lives so that we can live on in peace,” Mehl said.
The veterans also spoke about resources available to help service members cope with the long-term effects of their experiences, as well as the importance of giving back by volunteering in veterans’ hospitals, nursing homes and other care facilities.
The session provided students with an impactful opportunity to connect classroom learning with lived experience, leaving a lasting impression ahead of the Memorial Day holiday.
Photo caption: Hauppauge High School 11th grade social studies classes heard the firsthand experiences of Vietnam War veterans.
Photos courtesy of Hauppauge School District.
