An Inwood street was renamed Sunday to honor of a World War II veteran.

Sgt. Jeff Burns Sr. was a part of the historic 761st Tank Battalion, an all African-American unit, also known as the Black Panthers. The group was the first black unit to see combat and participated in the Battle of the Bulge.

Town officials say the street dedication was a part of an effort to right a wrong.

"Many of them were actually treated very badly by elements of this country and it's nice that they served and we should recognize it. They were courageous. They not only served, but they served well,” says Town of Hempstead Deputy Supervisor Bruce Blakeman.

Town officials brought a tank to the dedication, which was a surprise for the scores of people who showed up to honor Burns.