Governor Hochul orders flags flown at half-staff to honor Staff Sergeant Angel S. Rampersad

Albany, New York – Governor Kathy Hochul has directed that flags at all New York State government buildings be flown at half-staff on Friday, July 31, in tribute to Staff Sergeant Angel S. Rampersad, a New York soldier who lost her life while serving overseas. The flags will remain lowered from sunrise until sunset as the state honors her service, sacrifice, and commitment to the nation.

Staff Sergeant Rampersad died on July 17, 2026, during an attack at Muwaffaq Salti Air Base in Jordan. Her death has drawn tributes from state leaders and military officials, who recognized her dedication to protecting the country and serving alongside fellow soldiers stationed abroad.

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“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.”

A lifelong resident of Ozone Park in Queens, Rampersad built a life rooted in both education and public service. After graduating from Forest Hills High School, she continued her studies at John Jay College of Criminal Justice, where she earned a degree in Criminal Justice before pursuing her military career.

At the time of her death, Rampersad was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 57th Air Defense Artillery Regiment, part of the 52nd Air Defense Artillery Brigade under the 10th Army Air & Missile Defense Command based in Ansbach, Germany. Her assignment placed her among the soldiers responsible for air and missile defense operations, a role requiring extensive training and constant readiness.

Throughout her years in uniform, Rampersad earned a reputation for professionalism and dedication. Her military record included several honors recognizing both her service and conduct. Among the decorations she received were the Army Commendation Medal, the Army Achievement Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters, the Army Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, and the Army Service Ribbon.

Following her death, she was posthumously promoted to the rank of Staff Sergeant, a recognition of her service and contributions to the Army.

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Governor Hochul’s order to lower flags across state government buildings serves as a public tribute to Rampersad’s life and sacrifice. The observance offers New Yorkers an opportunity to remember a soldier who answered the call to serve and gave her life while carrying out her duties far from home.

As flags fly at half-staff across the state on July 31, communities will pause to reflect on the cost of military service and honor the memory of a Queens native whose commitment to her country left a lasting legacy. The ceremony also stands as a reminder of the men and women in uniform who continue to serve around the world, often in dangerous conditions, in defense of the nation.