Upon retirement, the U.S. Navy presents retirees with a flag that is flown over the location of their choice in commemoration of their years of military service. Hicksville High School Class of 1988 alumnus Thomas Schiffer, Naval Musician First Class (Surface Warfare), requested his flag be flown over his alma mater.
With deep appreciation for Schiffer’s 20 years of service, a special flag raising ceremony was held at Hicksville High School on March 4. Kim Wesson and Tony Walker, President and Vice President of the Hicksville High School Class of 1988, respectively, witnessed the raising of the flag while a brass quintet played “America the Beautiful.” The high school quintet was comprised of Jeremy Lopez and Matthew Tyler on trumpet, Bryan Reyes on french horn, William Sullivan on trombone and Christos Dimopoulos on tuba.
Patrick Lavin recited the poem “The Watch” as the flag was raised. Superintendent of Schools Maureen Bright and high school principal Raymond Williams attended the ceremony along with several alumni who learned of the ceremony through social media. Schiffer was fondly remembered by his classmates for his love of music and involvement in the high school theatrical performances and Madrigal Singers.
The flag was flown for 24 hours and returned to the U.S. Navy for presentation to Schiffer, along with congratulations from Hicksville Public Schools students and staff.
— From the Hicksville School District
