By FRANCIS JOSEPH
A United States soldier, with Trinidadian heritage, was killed in an Iranian missile strike On July 17.
Sgt. Angel Sarah Rampersad, 28, was serving at Muwaffaq Salti Air Base in Jordan when it came under enemy attack. She answered America’s call with courage, selflessness, and an unwavering commitment to defending our nation and the freedoms we hold dear, according to New York Assemblywoman, Jenifer Rajkumar.
She added, “Sgt. Rampersad embodied the very best of the United States Army and of our country. She served far from home, stood in harm’s way, and carried out her duty with honor. Her service and sacrifice will never be forgotten by Ozone Park, Queens, New York City, or a grateful nation.
“We have a sacred obligation to honor those who wear our nation’s uniform and the families who serve and sacrifice alongside them.
“As a member of the New York State Assembly Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, my commitment is to honor the courage and sacrifice of those who serve and stand with the families who bear that sacrifice alongside them.”
Sgt Rampersad enlisted in the US Army in March 2019 and earned several military honours, including the Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and the Army Service Ribbon.
Her death has also prompted an outpouring of grief in Trinidad and tobago, where her father is a national.
Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar SC is quoted as saying that the country mourns Rampersad with particular sorrow, noting that although she served under the American flag, she maintained a meaningful connection to Trinidad and Tobago through her heritage.
The Government confirmed that US authorities formally notified Trinidad and Tobago’s Acting Vice Consulate in New York of her death. Foreign and CARICOM Affairs Minister, Sean Sobers, also contacted her father to express condolences on behalf of the Government and people of Trinidad and Tobago, while officials from the Consulate General in New York later visited the family.
Sgt Rampersad was among four US service members confirmed killed in recent Iranian attacks on American military positions in the Middle East.
