Honoree: Bogdan H. Kociszewski

Bogdan Hillary Kociszewski was born on May 13, 1923 to Joseph and Kamilla Kociszewski. In 1927, Bobby’s family moved to Southampton and purchased the corner two-story building and garage on 268 Elm Street, the corner of Elm Street and Powell Avenue. The business started as an Ice Cream Parlor transforming to a Bed and Breakfast, then to Southampton Restaurant: a bar and grill, and eventually BK’s Mexican Restaurant. The business remained in the family for 73 years and was sold in 2000.

Bogdan (Bobby/BK) attended Southampton School District and graduated from Southampton High School, ranking number two in the class of 1941. Motivated to learning and possessing a desire for knowledge, Bogdan attended New York State Agricultural and Technical Institute in Canton, New York, and received a two-year degree with a focus on Industrial Chemistry. 

On 14 January, 1943 Bogdan entered into Active Service. He received Army Air Force technical training in 1944 and studied pre-meteorology for forty-eight weeks. Bogdan also attended Army Air Force School in Selfridge, Michigan where he received his training. Bogdan’s military occupation included operator where he controlled planes, giving them information, copies, and pilot reports while securing safety. He was an NCO in charge of eight men in radio navigation. He also gave instruction and procedures at other stations, while serving in Alaska. Bogdan told his children that he was in a plane over Alaska when Pearl Harbor was being bombed.

As an officer in the United States Army Air Force’s, he was known as Bogdan H. Kociszewski 12 100 008 Sergeant 122nd Army Airways Communication Systems.

Bogdan began Active Service 14 January, 1943 and was Honorably Discharged on 14 February 1946. He enlisted immediately into the United States Army Air Force’s Reserve on 15th February 1946, and was Honorably Discharged on the 14th day of February 1949.

As an officer, Bogdan H Kociszewski was the recipient of the following awards: American Service Medal, Asiatic Pacific Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, World War II Victory Medal.

After attending the University of Oregon, studying chemical engineering, Bogdan returned home to Southampton to resume the responsibility of the family restaurant. On August 10, 1948, Bogdan and Mary Ellen Gaines were married in Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary Church. Together they raised five children while working seven days a week at the Southampton Restaurant.

Bogdan (Bobby), was well known and actively involved in the Southampton Village Community. He was a volunteer Fire Policeman, member of the Polish Falcons at the Polish Hall, member of the Elks Club, supporter of Southampton College basketball, Blue Garter’s Club, a volunteer baseball umpire, and an excellent bowler on the “Night Owl Team”, a champion team at the Polish Hall. Bogdan, was a man of great integrity and hard work which he instilled in his five children, and nine grandchildren. Bogdan was married to his wonderful wife, Mary Ellen, for 52 years. His contribution to his country, family and community placed him in highest regard.

Bogdan died January 8, 2000 in Southampton Hospital.