By Michael V. Cusenza
A surging second wave of a global pandemic could not keep families of the 265 victims of the Nov. 12, 2001 American Airlines Flight 587 tragedy away from Flight 587 Memorial Park on Beach 116th Street in Rockaway Park on Thursday.
“Today marks another tragic anniversary for our city when 19 years ago, American Airlines Flight 587 crashed in Belle Harbor,” said State Sen. Joe Addabbo, Jr. (D-Howard Beach). “Our city was still reeling from the attacks of September 11th, and having another plane crash was devastating. On this 19th anniversary, we continue to pray for the souls of the 260 people on the flight, as well as the five Rockaway residents on the ground who died that day, and remember those that they left behind.”
Mayor Bill de Blasio added, “We remembered today, 265 good people we lost. We remember the pain, but also we remember the heroism of all those who in that moment rushed to the scene to save lives, to try their best, the first responders, the neighbors from the community, everyone who tried to see if there was any way to save the lives of those on that flight and those on the ground. And then we think about how the community came together, the whole Dominican community and the community of New York City to love and support all the good families, all those present today, and all those who couldn’t be here today. Scripture says, “Blessed are those who mourn for they will be comforted.” And we know the pain never goes away, but we do feel the comfort of each other. We do feel the support of each other. And we do know that memory is powerful and all our loved ones, they’re watching right now, they’re feeling our love and we will never forget them. We will never forget the passengers of Flight 587. I say, God blessed them and God bless all of you.”
Photos Courtesy of Michael Appleton/
Mayoral Photography Office
