The memory of former student Tom Cutinella will forever be preserved in Shoreham-Wading River through an Eagle Scout project recently completed by junior Ryan Ledda.

The $38,000 project encompasses a bust of Cutinella, surrounded by engraved pavers, pillars and landscaping at the new Tom Cutinella Memorial Field at the Shoreham-Wading River High School.

For the project, Ryan raised funds through the sale of pavers and a Go Fund Me page. He also enlisted donations and services from Emerald Landscaping. While it took three years to raise the money and secure approvals, it took just a few days to construct the memorial. Helping to build it, were Ryan’s fellow Boy Scouts, students and members of the Wildcats football team.

“Everyone really came together for this project,” said Ryan. “It showed me how close this community is.”