Friends, family and NY officials gather for funeral of Staff Sgt. Angel Sarah Rampersad in Queens
OZONE PARK, Queens (WABC) -- Family, friends, fellow service members and local dignitaries gathered Friday to honor the life of Staff Sgt. Angel Rampersad, the 28-year-old U.S. service member killed in an Iranian missile attack on an air base in Jordan.
Funeral services were held at her church in Ozone Park, where loved ones came together to pay their final respects.
Gov. Kathy Hochul and Mayor Zohran Mamdani were among the mourners at the church who then lined the streets for a procession.
Rampersad's mother, Carol Acevedo, thanked the community for coming together at the Calvary Assembly of God Church.
Rampersad, who was born in Trinidad, was one of the U.S. service members killed in an Iranian missile attack on an air base in Jordan on July 17, and among 18 Americans who have died since that conflict began nearly five months ago.
She was posthumously promoted to the rank of staff sergeant.
"All of her leaders talked about how she was exceptionally motivated; she was a soldier all commanders wanted on her team," said Brig. Gen. Glenn Henke, commanding general, U.S. Army.
Hundreds filled the chapel for the solemn service, which was also a celebration of life.
Rampersad's friends said she was a brave and committed member of the Army, but also knew life was meant to be lived.
State and local officials also came to pay their respects.
The service was followed by a procession of thousands to salute Rampersad's final journey through her community that she loved, before being laid to rest at the Long Island National Cemetery.
"My heart is with the family, loved ones and the soldiers who stood beside Sergeant Angel S. Rampersad as they grieve this unimaginable loss," Gov. 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."
State flags flew at half-staff Friday in the staff sergeant's honor, and local leaders hope to name a stretch of Cross Bay Boulevard after her.
ALSO READ | Queens community holds candlelight vigil for staff sergeant killed in Jordan by Iranian missile
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