Korean War Veteran Don Schreiber Honored as Sag Harbor Observes Veterans Day

Sag Harbor observed Veterans Day on Monday with a parade down Main Street and a brief gathering at the Chelberg & Battle Post 388 of the American Legion on Bay Street.

Once there, Don Schreiber, 95, a veteran of the Korean War and longtime member of the Legion, was surprised by his family with a shadow box that contained the patches and medals he won during his service overseas.

Schreiber’s son-in-law, Scott Comenzo, said the shadow box was made by his son, Patrick, and modeled after one he had made for his own father. Comenzo said he had used the website Medals of America to track down what medals were due his father-in-law and included those and patches from his service, in the display case.

Schreiber, a retired carpenter, served with a U.S. Army engineering brigade that, he said, was known as SCARWAF, which stood for Special Category Army Reassigned with Air Force because the newly formed Air Force did not yet have its own engineers.

Former Veterans of Foreign War Commander Hap Wills filled in for the VFW’s current commander, Max Yardley, who was out of town, but had prepared a speech in advance.

“Today we gather to recognize and celebrate the brave men and women who have served our country through unwavering courage and dedication,” Wills said, noting that Veterans Day is the time to reflect on the personal sacrifices made by veterans.

“From the beaches of Normandy and the jungles of Vietnam to the deserts of the Middle East, our veterans have stepped forward, leaving behind their families, their homes, and their personal dreams to defend our way of life,” he said. “Their bravery and commitment to something greater than themselves is a proud example to all of us.

“But today is not only a day to look back, it is also a day to look forward and ask ourselves how we can continue to honor these heroes in our everyday lives,” Wills continued. “We can and must continue to support the veterans in our community who may be facing challenges after their time in uniform. We can take the time to listen to their stories and ensure that their sacrifices are never forgotten. And we can teach the younger generations the importance of service and the value of freedom.”

Monday’s parade began at the Civil War monument and made its way down Main Street, as a small crowd of onlookers applauded the veterans who were accompanied by members of the American Legion’s ladies auxiliary and members of Sag Harbor Boy Scout Troop 455. A reception was held at the Legion following the ceremony.