COMMACK, NY – Community members, veterans, and town officials gathered on October 23, 2025 at Burr Cemetery to commemorate the completion of its historic restoration and to honor those interred there, including early American soldiers and veterans spanning generations.
Honoring Tradition and Service
The ceremony began with the raising of the flag and the singing of the National Anthem by Colonel Louis Di Leo, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. The flag was raised by descendants of the Burr and Scudder families – Warren Scudder, Janet Burr Schur, and Myrna Pellicano Wicks – symbolizing the enduring connection between local families and Huntington’s history.
Veteran Remembrance and Historical Discovery
This year’s ceremony carried special meaning, coinciding with the 42nd anniversary of the 1983 Beirut Marine Barracks bombing – the deadliest single day for the U.S. Marine Corps since Iwo Jima. Among those lost was Northport native Joseph Bacia, remembered by attendees with deep respect.
Recent research by independent historian Corey Geske and Town Historian Robert Hughes confirmed that two War of 1812 veterans Corporal Petit O’Byrne and Private Israel Scudder are buried at Burr Cemetery. Their service was newly recognized with VA-issued replacement stones, thanks to the efforts of Wayne Haddock, who secured the updated markers for damaged headstones dating back to the 1890s.
These findings strengthened the site’s historical importance and motivated Paws of War CEO Robert Misseri and volunteers Ray Myer and Tom Ronayne to pursue full restoration. Ronayne, who has advocated for veterans for more than 30 years, helped lead the project’s planning, coordination, and historic research.
Councilman Sal Ferro, Supervisor Ed Smyth, and members of the Town Board emphasized that this restoration represents more than a beautification effort – it’s a reaffirmation of Huntington’s promise to honor its veterans and protect its history for future generations.
Supervisor Smyth highlighted the site’s survival amid suburban expansion, while Councilman Ferro praised the unity between local government, civic groups, and residents who “came together to honor the past and preserve our shared heritage.”
Town Historian Robert Hughes and Councilman Sal Ferro reflected on Burr Cemetery’s significance as one of Huntington’s 56 historic cemeteries. Once part of a family farm, the site later bordered the World War I Brinley Airfield before becoming part of the modern commercial landscape inside the Home Depot parking lot at 5025 Jericho Tpke, Commack, NY. Remarkably, when the nearby shopping center was built, owner Henry Modell moved his store 50 feet back to protect the cemetery, a lasting testament to the community’s commitment to preservation.
Community Collaboration – A Restoration Rooted in Respect
The Town of Huntington led a significant restoration effort that included:
- Installation of a new fence, flagpole, and informational plaque
- Headstone cleaning and resetting
- Landscaping, paved sidewalks, and picnic area
- Addition of three benches honoring local families
These improvements were made possible through partnerships between the Town of Huntington, The Ferro Foundation, Paws of War, Home Depot, Lerner Properties, and numerous local volunteers. Home Depot manager Robin Piccolo led the team providing materials and labor, while Lerner Properties handled paving and lighting to ensure continuous flag illumination.
Looking Ahead
Assemblyman Keith Brown announced plans to expand cemetery restoration efforts across 20 additional historic sites, aiming to align completion with the nation’s 250th anniversary in 2026. Monthly volunteer cleanups – held every second Saturday – will continue advancing preservation and community engagement at Burr and other historic cemeteries throughout Huntington.
A Ceremony of Reflection and Reverence
The morning concluded with a prayer led by Father DiLorenzo followed by a flag presentation by representatives of the New York 11th Regiment, honoring the Burr and Scudder families’ military service. The presence of a Gold Star family underscored the multi-generational legacy of sacrifice and service commemorated at the site.
Through collaboration, research, and community pride, the restoration of Burr Cemetery now stands as both a memorial to those who served and a living testament to Huntington’s enduring respect for history and heritage.
Acknowledgments included:
- Suffolk County Police Department 2nd Precinct – Deputy Inspector Steve Rohde
- Commack Volunteer Fire Department Commissioner Pat Fazio and Chief Zedesiki
- Pole-Tech for their assistance with the flag pole
- Rolling Thunder NY – Chapter 6
- Town of Huntington Highway Department – led by Andre Sorrentino
- Andy Richter of Richter Apple Orchard
- Paws of War – for project leadership and volunteer coordination
- Mark Tyree, Huntington General Services and team
- Hazel Services
- Bruggemann Funeral Home
- Mike Huddinott
