Queens Soldier Angel Rampersad Mourned After Jordan Attack

NEW YORK — Family members, friends, fellow troops and neighbors from Ozone Park came together Friday to remember Staff Sgt. Angel Rampersad, the 28-year-old U.S. service member who was killed in an Iranian missile attack on an air base in Jordan.

The funeral was held at Rampersad’s church in Ozone Park, where those who knew and loved her gathered for a final farewell. Hymns including How Great Thou Art and Amazing Grace opened the service, setting a solemn tone as mourners reflected on her life, faith and military service.

Gov. Kathy Hochul, Mayor Zohran Mamdani and other elected leaders were among those in attendance, joining the community in honoring the fallen soldier.

At sunrise along Rockaway Boulevard, a motorcade accompanied Rampersad’s hearse to the church. Her flag-draped casket was carried inside while New York flags flew at half-staff, following an order issued by Gov. Hochul.

Rampersad was among the U.S. service members killed in the missile strike and one of 18 Americans who have died since the conflict began nearly five months ago.

Before the funeral, community members held a candlelight vigil in her honor, remembering Rampersad as a brave service member devoted to protecting others. Born in Trinidad, she later built her life in New York.

“Angel Rampersad was not born in the United States of America, but Angel Rampersad was willing to die for the United States of America. That takes a lot of courage,” Queens Borough President Donovan Richards said during the vigil.

Friends remembered Rampersad as selfless and among the finest people they had ever known. Others described her as someone who stood up for those who could not defend themselves.

Following the funeral, a procession traveled through Ozone Park, passing beneath four ceremonial FDNY ladder arches before continuing to Long Island National Cemetery, where Rampersad was laid to rest.

Local leaders have also called for a stretch of Cross Bay Boulevard to be renamed in her honor, ensuring her legacy remains a permanent part of the community she called home.

“My heart is with the family, loved ones and the soldiers who stood beside Sergeant Angel S. Rampersad as they grieve this unimaginable loss,” Governor Hochul said. “Staff Sergeant Rampersad lived a life of courage and selflessness. New York, and our nation, are safer because of brave Americans like her who answer the call to serve. May we honor her memory, remember her sacrifice and keep all who loved her in our prayers.”