“Rei” they called him. That’s how Police Officer Reinaldo Salgado was known in this Bedford-Stuyvesant community. We’re standing at the P.O. Reinaldo Salgado Playground. It’s a place of joy and laughter now. But it carries a poignant story.
The P.O. Reinaldo Salgado Playground stands as a tribute. It honors a man who dedicated himself to the children of the 81st Precinct. This park wasn’t always named for Officer Salgado. It was once Patchen Playground.
In August 1997, the playground was renamed. It became a living memorial to a beloved officer. Reinaldo Salgado died of leukemia on April 14, 1997. He was only 41 years old.
Born on January 6, 1956, in Manati, Puerto Rico, Salgado was the youngest of ten children. He grew up in the South Bronx. He then attended Cardinal Hayes High School. Later, he graduated from the State University of New York at Buffalo.
In May 1977, Salgado earned a B.A. in Speech Communication. He was the first in his family to graduate college. Like his two brothers, Rei chose a career in the Police Department. He graduated from the Police Academy in January 1981.
Officer Salgado’s commitment extended beyond law enforcement. He was actively involved in the 81st Precinct Youth Programs. He made a lasting impact on the lives of countless children. This playground is more than swings and slides. It’s a symbol of his dedication.
Imagine Officer Salgado here. He is laughing with the children. He is encouraging them. He is making a difference in their lives. That’s the spirit of this place.
Look around you. See the children playing. Hear their shouts of joy. Remember “Rei”. He dedicated his life to this community. The P.O. Reinaldo Salgado Playground is a testament to his legacy. It is a place where his memory lives on.
Today, P.O. Reinaldo Salgado Playground offers more than just a name. It has a handball court. There is also a giant soccer field and a basketball court. Two playground structures stand ready for adventure. Swings offer a chance to soar. Sprinklers provide relief on hot days. Monkey bars challenge young climbers. Benches offer rest for parents. Chess tables invite strategic minds.
But there is a sad side note. On August 12, 2022, tragedy struck. A man sitting on a bench was killed by a falling tree branch.
Let us remember Officer Reinaldo Salgado. Let us also remember the fragility of life. This playground is a place for joy. It is also a place for reflection.