Tragedy struck the battlefields of France. It forever links itself to this space now known as Lieutenant Clinton L Whiting Square.
Welcome to Lieutenant Clinton L Whiting Square. This square stands as a memorial. It honors a local hero. It also remembers the sacrifices of Woodhaven’s young men. They fought and died in World War I.
Lieutenant Clinton L. Whiting was a first lieutenant. He served in the 308th Infantry during World War I. His bravery earned him the Distinguished Service Medal. This award recognized his heroism in action.
On September 28 1918 Whiting led his men through the Argonne Forest. They faced heavy enemy fire. Whiting secured a key position in a marsh. This area was covered in wire grass and brush. Despite the danger he pressed on.
Tragically Whiting was seriously wounded. A machine gun bullet struck him. He died from his wounds on October 23 1918.
The community deeply felt his loss. In the late 1920s Lieutenant Clinton L Whiting Square was created. It honored his memory. It also honored other local soldiers.
A monument was erected in the square. It became known as “The Rock.” The monument stands on 84th Street and 91st Avenue. It is a permanent reminder of their sacrifice.
The local Veterans of Foreign Wars post was named after Lieutenant Whiting. The Whiting Memorial Hall opened in 1927. It was a clubhouse for the VFW post. It stood half a block from Lieutenant Clinton L Whiting Square.
The square once featured a captured German howitzer. This 20000-pound Krupp howitzer was captured in the Argonne Forest. It stood at Lieutenant Clinton L Whiting Square from 1928 to 1942. Robert Moses ordered its removal. It was scrapped for the war effort.
Today Lieutenant Clinton L Whiting Square remains a place of remembrance. The annual Memorial Day observances occur here. Residents gather to honor the fallen.
Though the VFW post is now defunct the square endures. It reminds us of Lieutenant Clinton L. Whiting’s courage. It also honors the service of all Woodhaven soldiers. Their sacrifices must never be forgotten.
Take a moment to reflect on their service. Remember the history held within Lieutenant Clinton L Whiting Square. Let us honor their memory always.