Bill Marinaccio

Location of Interview
Collection Name

Long Island Traditions - Climate Change and Sandy

Description

This project looks at how Superstorm Sandy affected the seafaring community, its residents, and its maritime traditions in Long Island, New York.  The project was funded by NOAA/Preserve American Grant.

Interviewer
Date of Interview
06-18-2015
Transcribers

Fantastic Transcripts

Principal Investigator
Audio
Video
Supplemental Material
Abstract

Bill Marinaccio, born and raised in Freeport, New York, is the son of Captain Carmine Marinaccio, a well-known charter boat captain. Growing up in a maritime environment, Bill was introduced to the fishing industry at a young age. He began helping his father with boat maintenance as a child and progressed to more significant roles, including first mate on his father's charter boat. Bill pursued higher education, attending college in 1962, before enlisting in the Army and serving as a military intelligence special agent during the Vietnam War. After returning from military service, Bill continued to be involved in the fishing industry. He worked as a mate and later as a captain on private fishing yachts and charter boats. Bill's career also included operating a launch boat in New York Harbor and providing transportation services for oil tankers. In addition to his work in the fishing industry, Bill engaged in trout fishing and developed a keen interest in the preservation of marine environments. 

Scope and Content Note
The interview with Bill Marinaccio, conducted on June 18, 2015, by Nancy Solomon, covers various aspects of his father, Captain Carmine Marinaccio's life and career in the charter boat business. The interview details Captain Carmine's early involvement in salvaging and repairing boats, his establishment of a successful charter boat operation, and his specialization in tuna fishing. Bill recounts numerous stories illustrating his father's dedication and skill, including navigating difficult weather conditions and innovating in tuna fishing techniques. The discussion also highlights the competitive nature of the charter boat industry in Freeport, especially following the repeal of Prohibition. A significant portion of the interview is devoted to Captain Carmine's environmental activism, particularly his efforts to combat acid waste dumping that affected local fishing waters. Bill explains the collaborative efforts of local boat captains and the eventual legislative changes that helped protect the marine environment. Additionally, the interview touches on Captain Carmine's ventures into writing, including articles for fishing magazines and a three-act play about environmental issues. Bill also shares his own experiences in the fishing industry, influenced by his father's teachings and practices and his continued involvement in various maritime activities after returning from military service. 


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