Captain O’Sullivan’s legacy lives on in this very plaza. This triangular patch of green at Astoria Boulevard 25th Avenue and 88th Street is more than just a park. It’s a memorial a tribute to a brave soldier a local hero. O’Sullivan Plaza honors Captain Christopher J O’Sullivan a man who gave his life serving his country. He was born and raised in Astoria just a short distance from this very spot. He attended Immaculate Conception School and Xavier High School before attending Fordham University. After graduating he joined the army becoming an airborne ranger. He even took time out from his rigorous training to marry his sweetheart Eleanor Scott. They had two sons Michael and Stevie.
Captain O’Sullivan served in Thailand and Vietnam. In May 1965 while leading his men in a counterattack against the Viet Cong he was tragically killed by shrapnel. He was only 28 years old. His sacrifice was immense. He was awarded numerous medals including the Distinguished Service Cross the Silver Star and the Purple Heart. His funeral was a solemn procession along Ditmars Boulevard. A ceremony was held on Governors Island.
His wife Eleanor accepted the medals on his behalf. This plaza his namesake was dedicated in 1967. Mayor John V Lindsay presided over the ceremony. O’Sullivan’s father and Council Member Edward Sadowsky were also present. The city acquired this land in 1933. It’s maintained by the Parks Department’s Greenstreets program. This initiative converts paved areas into green spaces. Volunteers contribute to keeping the plaza clean and its plants healthy. The Jackson Heights Neighborhood Association even donated granite blocks for tulip and daffodil beds. So as you stand here today remember Captain O’Sullivan. His story is woven into the very fabric of O’Sullivan Plaza. This place is a quiet testament to his bravery his sacrifice and his enduring legacy.