A New York teenager is earning national accolades for taking care of our military veterans.
Will Burrell, of Long Island, started a smash burger business and veterans eat free. That’s right – no charge if you’ve worn the uniform of this nation. Burrell also donates a portion of his earnings to pro-military organizations.
“I wouldn’t be able to do any of this without the freedom that we have, and that’s because they’re putting their lives on the line,” Burrell said.
The 18-year-old high schooler featured in a story published by the New York Post. He says he was inspired after attending a summer military-style training camp in Vermont.
Will’s burgers are a hit around town – along with his patriotic merch. One of the menu favorites is called the “Green Beret” – a smash burger topped with lobster and warm butter.
He raised $1,500 while flipping burgers for an event hosted by the Gary Sinise Foundation.
“I’m super grateful for our veterans,” Burrell said. “I’m grateful for this country. We live in the greatest country on the planet.”
Will plans to join the ROTC in college and he wants to pursue a career in the Army.
As for the secret to a great smash burger?
“You don’t want to smash it too thin,” he said. “You caramelize the onions, crisp them up and grill them so it cooks evenly and then flip it so it cooks in the fat.
That sounds like a juicy and patriotic burger!