Ozone Park Community Honors Fallen Soldier Angel Rampersad

Hundreds of residents, neighbors, and elected officials gathered in Ozone Park on Monday evening to mourn the loss of Army Sergeant Angel Rampersad. The 28-year-old soldier, a native of Trinidad who was raised in the neighborhood, died on July 17 during an attack on the Muwaffaq Salti Air Base in Jordan.

During the emotional candlelight vigil held outside the family’s home, it was announced that Rampersad had been posthumously promoted to the rank of Staff Sergeant. The gathering drew a significant presence of local leadership, including Queens Borough President Donovan Richards, Attorney General Letitia James, Public Advocate Jumaane Williams, and U.S. Representatives Gregory Meeks and Grace Meng.

Reflecting on her service, Borough President Richards described Rampersad as an embodiment of the American Dream, noting her long-held aspiration to serve in the military. "Angel Rampersad was not born in the United States of America, but Angel Rampersad was willing to die for the United States of America," Richards said during the event.

In response to her sacrifice, Sam Esposito, president of the Ozone Park Residents Block Association, announced initiatives to honor her legacy. The association plans to seek approval to rename a local street in her memory and is petitioning to rename PS 63 after the fallen soldier.

Public Advocate Jumaane Williams emphasized the weight of such sacrifices, urging the community to continue supporting the Rampersad family in the coming weeks. "When the cameras leave, when we are all gone, please remember this family," Williams said.

The vigil concluded with the release of white doves. A funeral service is expected to be held this Friday, which will include a procession through the Ozone Park neighborhood.