Did Commander Eugene S. Sarsfield ever imagine a playground bearing his name? Here at Commander Eugene S. Sarsfield Playground, the laughter of children echoes a life cut short but not forgotten. This park, dedicated in 1949, isn’t just swings and slides. It’s a living memorial to a Brooklyn boy who rose through the ranks of the US Navy, a man whose courage and leadership saved lives amidst the chaos of World War II. Commander Eugene S. Sarsfield Playground, nestled between East 38th Street, Avenue M, Flatlands Avenue, and Ryder Street, carries a distinct nautical theme. This is no accident. It’s a tribute to Sarsfield’s distinguished naval career. He served on battleships like the Nevada and New York, honed his skills in submarine instruction and torpedo training, and even walked the decks of the historic USS Constitution. Sarsfield’s story is one of bravery under fire. As Executive Officer of the USS Kearny, he was commended for his leadership when the ship was torpedoed off Iceland in 1941. He later took command of the USS Maddox, leading her through the perilous waters of the Atlantic on convoy duty. His skillful depth-charge attacks are credited with sinking a U-boat, an action that earned him the Legion of Merit. Sarsfield’s final mission brought him to the shores of Sicily in July 1943. During the invasion, the Maddox came under heavy German air attack. A bomb struck the ship’s magazine, causing a catastrophic explosion. As the Maddox sank rapidly, Sarsfield remained on board, directing the evacuation. His selfless actions saved the lives of 74 crew members, a testament to his unwavering commitment to his men. Though Sarsfield was lost at sea, his legacy lives on. He was posthumously awarded the Navy Cross for his heroism. A destroyer, the USS Sarsfield (DD-837), was launched in his honor, sponsored by his widow, Anne. Here at Commander Eugene S. Sarsfield Playground, the spirit of this local hero endures. The joyous shouts of children at play serve as a constant reminder of the sacrifices made by those who served, and of the man who gave his life for his country.
Центральный дом работников искусств
Step through the grand wooden doors of the Central House of the Workers of Art, and you’ll be transported to