Tree planted honors fallen soldiers

Kalers Pond Park is now home to the memory of a Center Moriches soldier who was killed serving the country he loved. Andreas “Andy” O’Keeffe was flying with the New York Air National Guard’s 106th Rescue Wing when he was killed in Iraq in early 2018.

Organized by the Moriches Chamber of Commerce, the ceremony brought out residents, veterans organizations, police, and O’Keeffe’s family: his mother Mary Ann, brother Shán, and girlfriend Allison Denniston. O’Keeffe earned a bachelor’s degree at the University of South Florida and a law degree from Georgetown University. He joined the 106th in 2013 and was one of seven airmen, along with two other Long Islanders—Master Sgt. Chris Raguso, 39, of Commack, and Staff Sgt. Dashan J. Briggs, 30, of Port Jefferson Station—who were killed when a HH-60G Pave Hawk rescue helicopter crashed on March 15, 2018.

O’Keeffe was remembered by colleagues, family, and friends as a person who always wanted the best out of others, and was able to inspire them. He emphasized teamwork and was able to make a team better just through his presence. The other names of the men killed alongside O’Keeffe were read at his dedication ceremony, because he would have wanted it.

“He gave his life, and we thank him for that,” said Miriam Gillies, a director on the chamber and the organizer of the event.

A magnolia tree was planted to honor O’Keeffe, and the Town of Brookhaven will be placing a plaque at its base with an inscription for him. The magnolia tree is seen as a symbol of dignity and nobility.

“This tree will one day provide shelter from the storm, be it teeming rain or blazing sun, much like Andy did during his time here serving with us,” said Col. Michael Bank of the 106th at the ceremony.

O’Keeffe also served during Hurricane Harvey recovery, did missions on the Horn of Africa and was deployed to Afghanistan twice. When he died, his father remembered him as someone who always felt like he had to do more for his country.