Community Corner
Local Hero gets Big Welcome Home at MacArthur Airport
West Sayville resident Eric Schreck returns home on leave from the Navy.
After battling inclement weather and flight delays, Eric M. Schreck, 19, of West Sayville, was finally able to make it home to family and friends for his holiday leave. Cheers rang out as the sailor entered the terminal at Long Island MacArthur Airport on the morning of Dec. 28. The Navy seaman had been deployed to the African coast where he serves on the USS John L. Hall.
The first person to greet Scheck was his 21-year-old sister, Hannah who ran up to hug him.
"I am very happy he's home," she said. "We are so close. I miss him every day."
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"She's there for me for everything," Schreck said of his elder sibling.
Town of Islip Councilman Gene Parrington (D-Sayville) was also among friends and family waiting to express his gratitude and presented Schreck with a Citation to show the town's appreciation for his service.
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While posing for photographs with the Councilman, Schreck donned his hat, but quickly removed it in respect for military rules and regulations.
The Hometown Heroes Welcome Program began two years ago in early 2009 and was created by the Town of Islip, which owns and operates the airport. Working in concert with the airport, Blue Star Mothers of America (NY6 chapter), the Patriot Guard Riders and family and friends, the program strives to provide a welcome home to local service members.
"It's really nice to have family right there for you at the door," Parrington said. A decorated Vietnam veteran himself, the councilman emphasized that "it is all about the support."
Schreck couldn't agree more and said it feels great to know he has the people's support. He explained that when people thank him his reply is not "you're welcome" but instead responds with, "thank you for your support."
"My son is very humble," said Schreck's mother, Paula. "For him it's all about protecting democracy and wiping out the bullies."
The USS John L. Hall (FFG 32) is a frigate ship, which was deployed to U.S. Africa Command (also known as AFRICOM) for seven months, promoting peace at land and sea and combating the growing pirate problem off the coast of Africa near Somalia.
When asked how she felt about her son's return, she replied with one word, "jubilation."
"I am very proud of him, and that he was a part of that group," she said, "but it's not just about my son, I'm thankful and pray for everyone in the military."
While he is home his plans include "making every second count." Schreck, who has been in the military for a year and half, will return on Jan. 3.
If anyone knows of a returning veteran or active duty military who would benefit from a "Hometown Heroes Welcome" please contact Councilman Parrington's office at (631) 589 – 0234, or the Islip Veterans Service Organization at (631) 224 – VETS.