Howard Von Dohlen Playground

Sergeant Howard Ames Von Dohlen’s name echoes through this playground. Howard Von Dohlen Playground stands as a testament to his bravery and sacrifice. Born in 1895, Von Dohlen was a Queens native. He worked at V.C. Brown, a brokerage firm, after graduating from high school. He was involved in his community, both at the Men’s Club and as Superintendent of the Sunday School at Epiphany Church in Ozone Park. In 1917, he left this life to join Troop D, Squadron A of the New York National Guard. He quickly rose through the ranks, becoming a corporal in Spartanburg, South Carolina, and then a sergeant before shipping out to France in May 1918. Howard Von Dohlen Playground remembers a man who repeatedly risked his life for others. During World War I, he served with the 27th Division, showing exceptional leadership. On three separate occasions, amidst heavy enemy fire, he carried wounded comrades to safety. Sadly, his bravery came at a cost. On October 17, 1918, during the Battle of La Selle River in St. Souplet, France, Sergeant Von Dohlen was killed in action while leading a machine gun section. He was posthumously awarded the Silver Star for his gallantry. This playground isn’t just swings and slides. It’s a piece of history, built in 1934 as one of nine playgrounds funded by the War Memorial Fund. This fund, initially collected by the NYPD, grew to $350,000. Thanks to Parks Commissioner Robert Moses, this money was used to create spaces like Howard Von Dohlen Playground, honoring fallen soldiers. The playground’s dedication, along with eight others, was a city-wide event, broadcast from Brooklyn’s William E. Sheridan Playground. Over the years, Howard Von Dohlen Playground has seen renovations and improvements. In 1984, it benefited from a city-wide park recovery program. Later, Councilman Thomas White, Jr. secured funding for improvements, including a new comfort station in 1993 and new play equipment and safety surfacing in 1998. So, as you enjoy Howard Von Dohlen Playground, remember the man behind the name. Remember his sacrifice and the community that came together to honor him. This playground stands as a tribute to Howard Ames Von Dohlen, a local hero who gave his life in service to his country.