Family and community members gathered outside Sgt. Angel Rampersad’s home in Ozone Park, Queens, to mourn the loss of the soldier who was killed last week in an Iranian attack on a U.S. airbase overseas. Rampersad's remains were returned to the United States in a dignified transfer ceremony at Dover Air Force Base in Delaware, which was attended by President Donald Trump.

Carol Acevedo, Rampersad’s mother, expressed both pride and sorrow during a vigil held outside their home, where an American flag was flown at half staff. She described her daughter as focused and deeply committed to her military service. “She died for this country, and I am a mother who’s highly proud of her,” Acevedo said.

Rampersad’s family, including her wife—whom she met during their time in the Army—did not comment on Trump’s remarks ahead of the ceremony. The president had asserted that the fallen soldiers supported ongoing U.S. efforts to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, a stance that has sparked some controversy.

Born in Trinidad, Rampersad moved to the United States as a child with her mother and sister. Before enlisting, she spent time studying criminal justice, first at Queensborough Community College and later at John Jay College. Her aunt, Judy Rackel, described her as a calm and strong presence within the family. Rackel noted that Rampersad was inspired by her mother’s determination, having witnessed Carol Acevedo raising her family largely on her own after immigrating to New York.

Rampersad joined the military soon after her 21st birthday, overcoming the initial requirement of parental consent when she was 18. She served as a dedicated member of the U.S. Army for seven years. Neighbors recall that she and her wife shared a black-and-white terrier named Rio.

The soldiers killed in the attack were supporting U.S. operations against the Islamic State group, according to a U.S. Central Command statement. Their deaths marked the first American troop fatalities resulting from direct Iranian missile and drone strikes since the conflict began.

Queens Borough President Donovan Richards praised Rampersad as a hero and announced plans to honor her legacy by renaming a street corner near her home and a local school. “No matter what you think of this war, what is not up for debate is the bravery it takes to enlist like Angel did seven years ago,” Richards said. “Her legacy of selflessness and sacrifice will live on forever here in Ozone Park and across Queens, but not just Queens, across this nation.”