Southampton Arts Center will honor three generations of local veterans by hosting a panel to hear their stories on November 8 from 3 to 5 PM.
Three short films will screen, featuring stories from the USA Warrior Stories Archive, including Susan E. Soto (Air Force 1982-92), John Melillo (Army 1970-72), and Arthur Muller (Navy 1942-45). Following the films, a Q&A moderated by USA Warrior Stories founders Matt Hindra and Nick Kraus will take place with Soto, Melillo, and Muller’s daughter, Sandy Raynor.
Nick Kraus stated, “Every veteran has a story worth telling, and each one offers a unique window into our nation’s history. These three films represent different generations of service, sacrifice, and personal experience, but they share a common thread of courage and commitment. For us, USA Warrior Stories has always been about giving veterans a voice and making sure their experiences are preserved for future generations. We’re grateful to the Southampton Arts Center for helping us bring these stories to our community and for giving audiences the opportunity to connect with the people behind them.”
Matt Hindra added, “What makes these stories so powerful is that we’re hearing history directly from the people who lived it. From World War II to Vietnam to Desert Storm, these three veterans offer very different perspectives on service and sacrifice. We’re honored to share their experiences with our community and grateful to the Southampton Arts Center for recognizing the importance of preserving these voices for generations to come.”
Susan E. Soto, a proud Native American, was among the first U.S. military personnel on the ground during Desert Storm. After arriving in Saudi Arabia, she coordinated intelligence and monitored aircraft movements for special operations. One of the highlights of Susan’s career was meeting General Schwarzkopf. Today Susan works with Veterans on the Shinnecock Reservation, where she grew up.
John Melillo was an MP (military police officer) in Vietnam. His job involved front-line supervision of 26 MPs, managing both civil and combat situations at Long Binh, which was the largest U.S. military installation in Vietnam, with over 40,000 Gls and 60,000 Vietnamese. John’s journey is reflected in his oil painting series “Life Goes On!” based on photographs he took while serving in Vietnam.
Arthur Muller (1921-2022) joined the Navy in 1942. Art eventually volunteered for PT (Patrol Torpedo Boat) duty and served as a motor mechanic aboard PT 227, which took part in the Battle of Mindoro. The invasion convoy had to fight off heavy Japanese air attacks, including Kamikazes. After the war, Art and his wife Irene settled in Water Mill, where Art served as postmaster for 30 years.
Southampton Arts Center Executive Director Christina Strassfield shared, “We are delighted to continue our partnership with USA Warrior Stories for a second year, sharing the stories of veterans at this annual event and welcoming them to our exhibitions for special tours. It is a pleasure to honor our veterans and share these meaningful experiences with them.”