St. Peter's Prep Student from Lyndhurst Leads Veterans' Graves Restoration at Holy Cross Cemetery

Jersey City, N.J. – In a remarkable display of community service and respect for history, a student from St. Peter’s Prep in Jersey City, who hails from Lyndhurst, has recently completed an ambitious Eagle Scout project at Holy Cross Cemetery and Mausoleum in North Arlington. This project focused on the restoration of gravestones of veterans from the Civil War, the Spanish-American War, and World War I.

Dylan Sullivan, the senior patrol leader of Lyndhurst’s Boy Scouts of America Troop 86, organized a team of 50 volunteers comprising family, friends, fellow Scouts, military veterans, and community members. The team used a specialized cleaning formula, similar to that used by Arlington National Cemetery, to meticulously clean each tombstone, removing years of grime and discoloration. Their efforts even uncovered several unmarked graves, which were restored to their original condition.

Reflecting on the project, Dylan, a junior at St. Peter’s Prep, expressed a deep sense of fulfillment, “I feel better knowing I did something for this community, this country, and the history of this country. These men fought for us. They’re the heroes of this country. I feel good knowing we honored the sacrifices that they gave.”

The project culminated in a rededication ceremony, where veterans’ organizations and public officials paid tribute to the fallen soldiers. The ceremony included a three-volley salute, a wreath laying, and a blessing from Father Dave Sison. Bergen County Commissioner Steven A. Tanelli recognized Dylan’s service with a certificate of commendation on behalf of the Bergen County Board of Commissioners.

For more information on Holy Cross Cemetery and Mausoleum, visit www.rcancem.org/holy-cross-homepage/.