October 28, 2026

Theodore Roosevelt students honor President Roosevelt on his 168th birthday

A group stands by flags while others present a floral wreath at a memorial site.

Second graders from Theodore Roosevelt Elementary School gathered at Youngs Memorial Cemetery in Oyster Bay on Oct. 27 to honor the life and legacy of President Theodore Roosevelt on what would have been his 168th birthday. The students participated in a special remembrance ceremony at the president’s graveside, joining local officials, historians and community members in paying tribute to one of Oyster Bay’s most celebrated residents.

The ceremony brought together several distinguished guests, including Town of Oyster Bay Supervisor Joseph Saladino, Town Clerk Richard LaMarca, Chris Cosentino of the Theodore Roosevelt Association, Oyster Bay Town Historian John Hammond, members of the Friends of Sagamore Hill, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Francesco Ianni and members of the U.S. Navy.

Hosted by Mr. Hammond, the ceremony began with the Pledge of Allegiance, led by members of the U.S. Navy. Supervisor Saladino then reflected on President Roosevelt’s life, accomplishments and deep ties to the Oyster Bay community.

Theodore Roosevelt Elementary School Principal Devra Small introduced the second graders, who performed a moving rendition of “America the Beautiful” under the direction of music teacher Elaine Ackerman. Oyster Bay High School students Richard Barillas and Tristan Constant followed with a solemn trumpet performance of “Taps.”

To conclude the ceremony, the second graders approached President Roosevelt’s gravesite and laid flowers in his honor, taking part in a longstanding tradition of remembrance.

The event offered students a meaningful opportunity to connect with local and national history while learning about the legacy of the president for whom their school is named.

Junior Noah Kingsley of Oyster Bay High School’s student news program, Bay News Now, was also on hand with broadcasting teacher Alex Dollin to document the event and interview Supervisor Saladino about the tribute's significance.

Three people stand by a fence in a park, with blurred figures in the background. A group of children poses outdoors near a fence, wearing various colorful jackets.

Gravestone of Theodore Roosevelt and Edith Kermit, surrounded by flags and a group of people. People placing a floral wreath at a memorial surrounded by onlookers and trees.

A group of children wearing colorful jackets is gathered, clapping. A group of officers stands in uniform, holding flags during an outdoor ceremony.

Two people play trumpets near gravestones in a lush graveyard with scattered leaves. A group of people visits a memorial, placing flowers near a grave marker and flags.

A person interviews another person using a microphone outside near a gated area and trees.

A person in a pink suit stands in front of a fenced area with flags.