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Long Island Teen Launches Veteran-Friendly Smashburger Stand to Support Military Families

A young entrepreneur from Long Island has created a burger business where veterans eat free and a portion of profits support active military personnel and their families. Will Burrell, a soon-to-be high-school senior and owner of Will’s Smashburgers in Mattituck, was inspired by his military-style boot camp experience in Vermont and his admiration for veterans’ sacrifices.

Located inside the Center Cuts Gourmet Butcher shop, Burrell personally prepares the burgers, often leaving inspiring handwritten messages for customers. He also sells patriotic merchandise, including American flag T-shirts. Burrell initially raised $1,500 for the Gary Sinise Foundation by flipping burgers at a school event and now donates 10% of his proceeds to veteran causes.

The business has expanded, with Burrell securing a spot at Center Cuts, where he used to work, and attracting notable customers such as hockey player Kyle Palmieri. Burrell, who plans to join an ROTC program in college to pursue a career in the Army, reflects on lessons learned from interactions with veterans and Spartan Race creator Joe De Sena, which reshaped his perspective on hard work and risk-taking.

Burrell emphasizes community and giving back, drawing from his family’s culinary background and his passion for grilling, learned from his father. His special menu includes the original smashburger topped with a unique sauce, caramelized onions, and a bacon-onion jam. For more adventurous eaters, he offers “The Green Beret” — a burger topped with lobster and butter, a playful nod to his military inspiration.

His success is evident in the local community, where friends promote his business and he hosts events at popular venues. Burrell remains committed to honoring veterans, believing that their sacrifices enable opportunities like his.

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