KINGS POINT, N.Y., December 2, 2025 — The United States Merchant Marine Academy will host the 48th Festival of Lights, an interfaith service celebrating the blessings of 2025 and offering prayers and hopes for 2026, on December 11, 2025, from 1900–2030 at the Mariners’ Memorial Chapel.

This year’s Festival will include a special ceremony recognizing Mr. Arthur Grabiner, a World War II Navy Veteran and survivor of the Battle of Okinawa, on the occasion of his 100th birthday.

Rear Admiral Peter Muschinske, Deputy Chief of Chaplains for Reserve Matters, will join the Kings Point community to celebrate one of USMMA’s most joyous annual traditions. Attendees can look forward to musical performances by our talented midshipmen, led by Dr. Wonsun Clara Bae, Director of Music, and LT Taylor Massey, Music Director, Regimental Band.

“We are very honored to celebrate the Festival of Lights while recognizing Mr. Grabiner’s remarkable life and service,” said LCDR Jonathan Jones, CHC, USN,  “This year’s event reminds us of our legacy of service and the many blessings we share.”

What: Festival of Lights — interfaith service, musical program, and special recognition of Mr. Arthur Grabiner

When: 11 December 2025, 1900–2030

Where: Mariners’ Memorial Chapel, United States Merchant Marine Academy, Kings Point, N.Y.

Who: Rear Admiral Peter Muschinske, Chief of Reserve Chaplains; Dr. Wansun Clara Bae; Regiment of Midshipmen; Kings Point community 

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About USMMA.

The U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, located in Kings Point, N.Y, educates and graduates leaders of exemplary character who are inspired to serve the national security, marine transportation, and economic needs of the United States as licensed Merchant Marine Officers and commissioned officers in the Armed Forces. The Academy, which was established under the Merchant Marine Act of 1936, was dedicated as the United States Merchant Marine Academy in 1943 by President Franklin D. Roosevelt. It is administered by the Department of Transportation.

On the web: U.S. Merchant Marine Academy

On Facebook: @USMMAOfficial