Vigil honors life of Queens soldier killed overseas during Iran war
A vigil was held Monday night for the soldier from Queens who was killed in an attack on a U.S. base in the Middle East.
Angel Rampersad was remembered at the 7 p.m. ceremony in front of her family's Ozone Park house.
Hundreds turn out to show their respect
Rampersad, who was posthumously promoted to staff sergeant, died during an Iranian missile attack on July 17 on Muwaffaq Salti Air Base in Jordan. The 28-year-old was initially listed missing before military officials confirmed she died.
"Tonight, we remember Angel as a United States Army soldier, a hometown hero, an American hero. But to those who knew and loved her most, she was so much more than a uniform, a rank and a title. She was a beloved daughter, sister, family member, close friend. An irreplaceable part of the family whose lives have been changed forever," said Sam Esposito, president of the Ozone Park Residents Block Association.
New York Attorney General Letitia James was among the elected officials in attendance.
"Freedom is not free. It's important that we recognize her service to others. Her service really was an act of love," James said.
"I'm so sorry for your loss. I can only imagine your pain," Public Advocate Jumaane Williams said.
"We all stand together for her bravery and for her loyalty and dedication. We will never forget her," Rep. Gregory Meeks said.
"Angel was the American dream, fought like an American, and lives in our hearts as a true American hero," Queens Borough President Donovan Richards said.
A daughter of Queens and of America
Local cadets stood guard to honor their fallen hero. A moment of silence was held to hold up a grieving mother, and white doves soared into the evening sky to remember a daughter of Queens and a daughter of America.
"I want to thank you all from the bottom of my heart. Thank you," her mother, Carol Acevedo, said.
Rampersad was born in Trinidad but grew up in New York. She attended P.S. 108, then Forest Hills High School, and later graduated from John Jay College with a degree in criminal justice.
She is survived by her parents, older sister and her spouse, whom she met in the military.
"My daughter was a good soldier. She fought for this country, and she died for this country," Acevedo said recently. "I am a mother that is highly proud of her."
Richards said Rampersad will be remembered as the "drummer, singer and star athlete at Forest Hills High School."
The funeral will be Friday morning, where the public is invited to honor her life, service and sacrifice. It will be at 9 a.m. at the Calvary Assembly of God on Rockaway Boulevard. Hundreds more are expected to attend.
