A day meant for honoring veterans at Calverton National Cemetery looked different this year after the annual ceremony was canceled due to the federal government shutdown.
The cemetery in Calverton announced the cancellation of its planned Veterans Day ceremony, explaining it’s due to the ongoing federal government shutdown and limited time to prepare an event properly.
“It is with great regret that we announce that due to the ongoing federal government funding lapse, it is necessary to cancel the 2025 Veterans Day Ceremony,” cemetery officials said in a statement. Although the ceremony didn’t take place, visitors were still allowed to come visit during daylight hours to pay their respects.
Community groups and local veterans stepped in to make sure they honored this day somehow. The Riverhead Police Benevolent Association organized a tribute near the cemetery entrance and were joined by the Jamesport fire departments and Suffolk County police. A large American flag was hung between fire-department ladder trucks, serving as a reminder to residents that the day was dedicated to service members.
“I know there’s a number of people that were disappointed that the ceremony was canceled,” said John Morris, vice president of Riverhead PBA.
“I find it to be a total disgrace for veterans, not being able to get the honor that they deserve today,” said Phil Piegari from Jamesport.
“I’m sure there’s tons of people driving by who are veterans who maybe thought, ‘Hey, we’ve been forgotten about today,’ and they see this big, beautiful flag,” said Kevin Thomas, a Marine veteran from the Riverhead police officer department.
Veterans expressed disappointment at seeing the official ceremony cancelled. “They gave their lives for America. I was just very disappointed and hurt,” Navy veteran John Funk said. “I served. I lost a lot of friends over in Vietnam. I’m here for them.”
Local law-enforcement veterans played an important role in the tribute. “About 15 to 18 of our 100 Riverhead police officers are either active duty or veterans,” said Morris, noting that it “didn’t sit well” to let the day pass without acknowledging what they’ve done for us.
Although the traditional ceremony couldn’t go on, the cemetery was still open to visitors. Families visited graves, placed flags and reflected on the service and sacrifices made. For many, the day remained a chance to honor those who served.
