Saturday, November 14, 2026
Lakeside School in Merrick honored 13 local veterans during its annual Veterans Day ceremony on Nov. 6, bringing together students, families, staff members and local officials to recognize those who served in the U.S. military.
The ceremony, hosted by the Lakeside PTA with support from school staff and families, recognized veterans with ties to the school community, including parents and grandparents of students and staff members.
PTA member Gina Sonbert coordinated the event alongside Lakeside staff. This year's ceremony held special meaning for Sonbert, whose father, traditionally among those she honors, died unexpectedly two weeks earlier. His widow accepted the recognition on his behalf.
Before the ceremony, Nassau County Legislator Michael Giangregorio and State Sen. Steve Rhoads presented proclamations to the veterans in recognition of their service.
The program began with the school's student color guard presenting the flags, followed by patriotic songs led by music teacher Jeffrey Glemboski.
Sixth graders and student council representative Jaclyn Koslow introduced the ceremony, while Principal Libby Trencheny and Assistant Principal Chris Colarossi shared biographies of the honorees. Students also presented flowers to the veterans as a token of appreciation.
Trencheny spoke about the sacrifices made by military personnel and their families, emphasizing the importance of recognizing their service.
"Veterans have made a commitment to protect our country and help keep us safe," Trencheny said. "Serving in the military takes courage, strength, teamwork, and sacrifice. Some of our veterans have served in places far away from their families. They may have missed birthdays, holidays, school events, and other important moments. Their families also made sacrifices while their loved ones were serving our country. Veterans Day gives us an opportunity to stop and say two very important words: thank you."
Koslow also addressed the gathering, reflecting on the contributions of the different branches of the military and the importance of honoring those who served.
"Every single branch is equally important to all of us, and each serves the state in a different way," Koslow said. "Veterans Day is a day to appreciate and recognize the people who have sacrificed all they could for our country."
The annual ceremony gave students an opportunity to learn about military service while personally thanking veterans within their own school community.
