Comsewogue High School students gathered Wednesday to clean up tombstones at the Calverton National Cemetery.

Organizers say about 140 students attended with buckets, soap and brushes to clean the tombstones of the buried war heroes. They say the students chose to give back to the soldiers as part of their "Day of Service" project.

"They just had to bring a bucket and a sponge and a good spirit, and everybody out here today is just volunteering and giving up their day to help out here and it's a beautiful thing," says student John Quartararo.

Organizers say the students are learning about the value of volunteerism and how they can improve the community by working together.

"I think of it as a way of giving back to those who gave their all to give us our freedom," says student John Smillie.

Many students say the experience is rewarding and they hope to make it an annual event.