by Sue Giustino
Life-long resident Thomas Grenci Jr. has been chosen by the Montauk Friends of Erin as the 2026 Montauk Grand Marshal. He will march along with the group and the Amityville Highland Pipe Band in the NYC Parade, as well as lead the Montauk St. Patrick’s Day Parade on March 29, 2026.
“I knew and know most of the former Grand Marshals and I’m very proud to be among those great people.” ~Tom Grenci
Son of Thomas and Romona Grenci, Tommy grew up in the state park house at Montauk Point [1962-1987]. His parents lived there for 33 years [1958-1990] during his dad’s long tenure as a NY State Police Officer for Hither Hills and Montauk Point State Parks, as well Assistant Park Manager. Tommy grew up at the point with his sister Christina and told me that it wasn’t as remote as one would think. He remembers taking his bike to the Camp Hero Air Force Base- “It was a whole little community,” he said. “My mom shopped at the ‘base exchange’ store, we rode our bikes and played on the grounds, and used the bowling alley and movie theater with the kids who lived at the base.”
Tommy went to the Montauk Public School – class of 1977- during which time he joined the Cub Scouts where Joan Lycke was his den mother, and the Boy Scouts, enjoying time with his dad the Scoutmaster. After graduating from East Hampton HS- class of 1981, he attended Suffolk Community College for a while, joined the Montauk Fire Department climbing the ranks to the position of chief [1981-present], becoming a Traffic Control Officer in ’82, and in ’83 entered the Suffolk County Police Academy into the 85th recruit class.
Following in his dad’s footsteps, Tom Grenci Jr. served the East Hampton Police Dept. from 1982 until retiring as a Lieutenant in 2015. From 1985 until June of 1988 when he was appointed EH Town Police permanent Police Officer, he worked as a part-time N.Y. State Park police officer, EH Town Police dispatcher, and police garage mechanic. As a member of the force, Tommy routinely sought to better himself as an officer by attending numerous seminars, and specialized trainings- such as the FBI National Academy for 11 weeks in 2006. Along with 250 other active police officers from all over the country and world, he was selected to participate and receive FBI advanced training at Marine Corps Base Quantico in Virginia.
In 1999 officer Grenci was promoted to Detective, Sergeant in 2004, and served as the East Hampton Precinct commander from 2005-2010 when he was promoted to Lieutenant. Tommy concluded his outstanding career in 2015 as Montauk Precinct Commander: retiring with a record rich with letters of gratitude, commendations and awards. His service included being named 1992 Co-Police Officer of the Year for his role—alongside Wesley Payne—in rescuing two hostages and capturing five armed suspects following a robbery.
Tommy met his wife Lisa in November of 1988, was engaged in 1990, and married in September of 1991. About Tommy’s appointment as Grand Marshal, Lisa commented, “I’m extremely proud of my husband and want to thank the Montauk Friends of Erin for bestowing him this honor. Tom not only gives 100% to me and our family, but to the Montauk community he dearly loves, as well. We are so thrilled and can’t wait to celebrate with everyone.”
Tom and Lisa have three children- Thea Grenci, Eva Grenci and Thomas Grenci III. It’s obvious to anyone who knows them that the Grenci’s are extremely proud of and close to their children. And from their comments, the feeling is mutual…
“What a great honor, dad is Montauk’s 64th Grand Marshal! We as a family are so proud of you dad. Your dedication and commitment to the Montauk community is unmatched. You always served the people of this town with compassion, empathy and most of all kindness. You have been my role model since I was a little girl. I can’t wait to stand by your side on your special day to celebrate you! I love you!”- Thea
“My father, Tom Grenci, has dedicated his life to serving the Montauk community—as a retired police officer, former Fire Chief, Lions Club member, and, above all, a devoted, caring, and loving father. His unwavering commitment to Montauk and to our family reflects a lifetime defined by service, integrity, and selflessness. He is an extraordinary father whom I love deeply, and I could not be more proud. I love you, Dad.”- Eva
“This honor means a great deal to our family. Montauk isn’t just where my dad grew up — it is the community he has devoted his life to serving. This recognition of his commitment, sacrifice, and leadership is deeply meaningful. He has also been an exceptional father, and I could not be more proud. We are sincerely grateful to the Montauk Friends of Erin for this honor. We love you so much Dad! -Tommy
Along with his endeavors to become a police officer and starting a family, Tommy joined the Montauk Fire Department since1981 and continues to be an active member. In 1983 he became Lieutenant of Co 2, from 1984-86 he served as Captain of Co 2, 1993 2nd Assistant Chief, 1994-95 1st Assistant Chief, and 1996-97 as the Chief.
As if he wasn’t busy enough, Tommy has been a member of a number of civic and social organizations including the Montauk Point Lion’s Club since 1997, the Son’s of the American Legion Post #419, and the Montauk Friends of Erin. Becoming an Honorary Member of the Friends of Erin in 2014 and joining full time in 2019 where he has served as the Grand Marshal liaison and Secretary, as well as being an active member planning and participating in all of their fund-raising events and parade activities.
We wish Tommy and his family a wonderful experience during the St. Patrick’s Day festivities. Please join the club on Friday March 27th at the Grand Marshal Luncheon, Saturday March 28th for the annual Cocktail Party, and especially on Sunday March 29th for the 64th annual Montauk St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Congratulations Tommy!
For additional information go to https://www.montaukfriendsoferin.org/ .