Lt. Michael Murphy Navy SEAL Museum's Laura Racioppi Honored By Suffolk Sheriff's Office

Sheriff says she "plays a vital role in the museum's mission to educate the public about the values of the Navy SEAL community."

Mar. 6, 2026 at 2:18pm

Laura Racioppi, board treasurer of the Lt. Michael P. Murphy Navy SEAL Museum, was recently recognized with the Community Leadership Award for the month of March from the Suffolk County Sheriff's office. The sheriff's office described Racioppi as "a prominent community advocate and long-time supporter of organizations that honor the legacy of our nation's heroes" and said she "plays a vital role in the museum's mission to educate the public about the values of the Navy SEAL community" and the heroism of the Patchogue native, Murphy, who died trying to save his teammates in Afghanistan in 2005.

Why it matters

The Lt. Michael P. Murphy Navy SEAL Museum aims to honor the legacy of a local hero and educate the public about the values and sacrifices of the Navy SEAL community. Racioppi's recognition highlights the important role community advocates play in supporting such institutions and preserving the memory of those who have served.

The details

Toulon presents the Community Leadership Award each month to Suffolk residents and organizations that go above and beyond to support their communities and make a meaningful impact on the lives of others. To nominate someone for the award, residents can email the Sheriff's Public Information Office.

  • Racioppi was recently recognized with the award for the month of March 2026.

The players

Laura Racioppi

Board treasurer of the Lt. Michael P. Murphy Navy SEAL Museum and a prominent community advocate and long-time supporter of organizations that honor the legacy of our nation's heroes.

Lt. Michael P. Murphy

A Patchogue native and Navy SEAL who died trying to save his teammates in Afghanistan in 2005.

Errol Toulon

The Suffolk County Sheriff who presents the monthly Community Leadership Award.

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What they’re saying

“a prominent community advocate and long-time supporter of organizations that honor the legacy of our nation's heroes”

— Suffolk County Sheriff's Office

“plays a vital role in the museum's mission to educate the public about the values of the Navy SEAL community”

— Suffolk County Sheriff's Office

The takeaway

The recognition of Laura Racioppi's community advocacy and support for the Lt. Michael P. Murphy Navy SEAL Museum highlights the important role that local champions play in preserving the memory and values of those who have served our country.