Mattituck Naval Serviceman Winner of Veterans Day Wedding Giveback

The winners of the 12th annual Veterans Day Wedding Giveback are Boatswain’s Mate First Class (BM1) Alexander “Alex” Padworski, 32, of Mattituck, and Heather Tricoli, 34, of Chicago, Illinois. This active-duty naval leader and his fiancé were selected by a panel of Peconic Landing members to win the annual contest, which provides a free wedding at Brecknock Hall to current or former military personnel in recognition of their service. The couple was notified during a surprise reveal at Peconic Landing on May 15 with family members present in person and via Zoom.

Padworski, in active-duty service since 2011 and currently stationed at PCU John F. Kennedy (CVN 79) in Virginia, brings a wealth of military experience and dedication to service. He has received numerous awards, including the Navy/MC Achievement Medal, Good Conduct Medal, GW-Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, and Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal. Throughout his tenure, Padworski has demonstrated exemplary leadership, contributing significantly to critical missions and multinational exercises, ensuring the security and success of his team aboard USS George H.W. Bush (CVN-77).

Amid his remarkable military achievements, Padworski found love in an unexpected place — online. He and Heather’s love story began in January 2022, shortly after his return from a 10-month deployment. Their whirlwind romance blossomed over dinners and adventures in Richmond and Williamsburg, Virginia, culminating in a proposal during a trip to Disney World, where Padworski surprised Tricoli with a ring at The Palm restaurant.

Reflecting on his upbringing in Orient and Mattituck, Padworski fondly recalls the beautiful landscapes and close-knit community that molded his character. “I was a member of NJROTC [at Mattituck High School] and was heavily inspired by Senior Chief Turner who taught my classes — he is still a mentor to me today in and out of the Navy,” he said. “The North Fork is a place I will always consider home, even after living all around the world for the past 12 and a half years.”

Padworski and Tricoli will be provided with a complete wedding on Sunday, November 10, in celebration of Veterans Day, to be held at Brecknock Hall. Sponsored by Peconic Landing, the giveaway is made possible through contributions from local businesses and organizations who donate an estimated $65,000 worth of time, talents, and services to create a fairy tale wedding.

“A true testament to honor and sacrifice, BM1 Padworski embodies the very essence of service,” said Robert J. Syron, President and CEO of Peconic Landing. “This couple’s dedication to our nation, along with their inspiring commitment to each other, epitomizes the spirit of the Veterans Day Wedding Giveback. Peconic Landing is honored to host Alex and Heather as they embark on their journey together.”

Padworski and Tricoli were chosen by a panel of Peconic Landing members with military ties, who judge the contest based on the number of years served, special military honors, and each couple’s personal love story.

The Veterans Day Wedding Giveback began in 2011 as an opportunity to thank Long Island’s military personnel and recognize them for their service to our country. The annual contest is open to both current and veteran service members; at least one partner must have served or be serving in the U.S. Armed Forces.