Farewell to Staff Sgt. Angel S. Rampersad: A Hero’s Journey

On July 31, a solemn procession took place in New York as NYPD officers carried the casket of Staff Sgt. Angel S. Rampersad. She lost her life in the conflict involving the U.S. and Iran. Her passing brought the distant war closer to the community of Ozone Park, Queens.

The News That Changed Everything

When Carolina Flores saw military officers approach her friend Carol Acevedo’s home, she sensed a tragedy. Acevedo’s daughter, 28-year-old Angel S. Rampersad, was serving in the Middle East. The officers came to inform about Angel’s death on July 17 during an attack at Muwaffaq Salti Air Base in Jordan. She was one of four American soldiers killed recently. This devastating news affected the diverse neighborhood deeply.

Community Remembers Angel

On Monday evening, neighbors gathered for a vigil at Rampersad’s home. People from various backgrounds like Colombia and Morocco came together. They lit candles, sang, and prayed. An American flag flew at half-mast in her honor.

First responders and community members paid their respects as her casket proceeded to the Calvary Assembly of God Church. Many who spoke at her funeral expressed that Rampersad would have been amazed by the admiration she received.

A Journey from Trinidad to the U.S.

Born in Trinidad, Rampersad moved to the U.S. at two years old. Her family recalled her determination to serve her adopted country. “Angel Rampersad wasn’t born here, but she was willing to die for America,” said Queens Borough President Donovan Richards, highlighting her deep commitment to the nation.

At 18, Rampersad wanted to enlist in the military. Her aunt, Judy Rackal, recounted how she waited until she could sign up without parental consent. She joined the Army at 21, later serving in Hawaii and Germany before being deployed to the Middle East.

Accomplishments and Legacy

In her military career, Rampersad was part of the 10th Army Air and Missile Defense Command, managing military communication systems. Her close family friend, Army veteran Deo Singh, guided her into this role for its relative safety. She earned accolades like the Army Commendation Medal. After her passing, she received a posthumous promotion to staff sergeant.

Her mother, Carol Acevedo, expressed immense pride in her daughter’s dedication and love for her role in the military.

Life Beyond the Uniform

Rampersad was not only a soldier. At her local church, she played drums, and in high school, participated in softball and bowling. After studying at Queensborough Community College, she graduated from John Jay College of Criminal Justice before joining the Army.

Her aunt Rackal described Rampersad as the “calming element” amid family crises, always maintaining a joyful demeanor.

Final Farewell

During the funeral, Acevedo urged parents to cherish their children. Through tears, she advised, “Love your kids. Hug them. Cherish them.” Those words resonated deeply with everyone present.