Thursday, October 1, 2026
Dozens of young cadets took part in a formal military-style ball at the Elmont American Legion Post last weekend, gaining hands-on experience in leadership, etiquette and naval tradition through the American Legion.
The seventh annual military ball, hosted by the Elmont American Legion Riders on April 18, brought together students in the New York Naval Cadet Corps, a program for children in elementary through high school that teaches the customs and courtesies of the U.S. Navy. Cadets take part in leadership training and veterans ceremonies such as flagging graves and community memorial events throughout the year.
Each spring, the Elmont American Legion Post hosts the military ball to give cadets a structured, real-world introduction to military customs in a formal dining setting, said Dawn Samuel, commander of
the Nassau County American Legion, who commenced the event seven years ago.
From the moment cadets arrived, the event followed strict military protocol designed to mirror an authentic formal function. Cadets entered one by one, were announced, and then greeted a receiving line of veterans, with whom they exchanged salutes.
The purpose, Samuel explained, isn’t just ceremony, but preparation for life skills that go beyond the military setting.
“In a military function, you don’t sit down, you don’t find your seat,” she said, describing a military ball. “So what you have to do is socialize.”
To that end, cadets participated in a scavenger hunt-style activity that encouraged them to engage with veterans, ask questions and learn about their service. The exercise was designed to break the ice and build confidence for speaking with adults and authority figures.
Throughout the afternoon, veterans worked closely with cadets, pulling small groups aside to walk them through formal responsibilities. Those included the presentation of colors, Prisoners of War and Missing in Action (POW/MIA) recognition, and chaplain duties, such as the invocation and benediction.
A highlight of this year’s event was the singing of the national anthem by 7-year-old cadet Nailynn Higuiccta — the first time the anthem was incorporated into the program. Her participation reflected the program’s inclusion of younger cadets in meaningful ceremonial roles alongside older students.
Two cadets were also formally recognized when they were presented with American Legion Rider vests, an honor recognizing selected youth participants. One of the recipients, Sadie Mae Grassi, received her vest in memory of her late grandfather, Paul Macchione, a former member of the Elmont American Legion Riders. The recognition honored his legacy of service.
Parents said the program has had a lasting effect on their children outside the program. “I feel that ever since I got my daughter involved in this, her attitude is more disciplined,” said Juliana Martinez, a parent of two cadets, Adrian Pico Martinez, 10, and Higuiccta.
Martinez said she has seen both of her children become more confident, social and responsible thanks to their participation in the program.
When keynote speaker David Vanderwerff, who served in the military as a sergeant and now a member of the American Legion, addressed the cadets, he focused on leadership traits that extend beyond military structure.
“A person of good character is honest, helpful, kind, productive, has good morals and is inclined to be well-liked,” Vanderwerff said.
Now in its seventh year, the ball continues to grow, while maintaining its focus on discipline, leadership and hands-on exposure to military tradition. The program is designed to build confidence and responsibility in young cadets, preparing them not only for potential military service but also for leadership roles in any path.
