PHOTOS: Ballfields in MacArthur park renamed in honor of two fallen Vietnam soldiers
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Over a half-century after making the ultimate sacrifice in the Vietnam War, two “Berries Boys” were immortalized just a stone’s throw away where they grew up — at the Berry Houses.
Staff Sgt. James Cooney and Pfc. John Tamburri, Jr, casualties of the Vietnam War and were awarded Purple Hearts, were honored as the newly renovated ballfields of General MacArthur Park were renamed in their honor in a ceremony attended by over 200 guests Friday morning.
“They were true heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice during the Vietnam War and were awarded with Purple Hearts in recognition, and we are all forever grateful for their bravery and dedication to their country,” said NYC Parks Commissioner Sue Donoghue. “By naming these ballfields in their honor, a piece of who they were and what they represented will remain here forever.”
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Councilman David Carr (R-Mid-Island), who was among the dignitaries reflected those sentiments saying, “These two individuals who we’re honoring at this dedication today certainly embody the mantra ‘All gave some, and some gave all.’”
Bobby Tamburri, brother of John, spoke of the togetherness shared by those who grew up as “Berries Boys.”
“We still get together every so often and just hang out together at Lee’s (Tavern) for beer and pizza like we always did,” said Tamburri.
Tom Cooney, the brother of James, added, “Our hope is that kids playing on these fields will pause for a moment and acknowledge the sacrifice these two brave young men made for our country and they are thankful for the hard fought freedoms they enjoy.”
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