Strack Memorial Park

Forest Park-PFC Lawrence Strack Memorial Pond

Nestled within Forest Park in Queens, New York, the PFC Lawrence Strack Memorial Pond offers a serene retreat from the urban landscape. This picturesque pond, surrounded by lush greenery, provides a tranquil setting for visitors to enjoy nature and unwind. (mapquest.com)

The pond's history is deeply intertwined with the legacy of Private First Class Lawrence Strack, a local youth who made the ultimate sacrifice during the Vietnam War. In the early 1960s, Strack was an active participant in local little leagues, including the Cypress Hills Bombers, Little Fellers League, and Rich-Haven Little League. He often ice-skated on the pond that was then unnamed. After enlisting in the Army and serving as a paratrooper, Strack was tragically killed in action on March 3, 1967, at the age of 18. (leaderobserver.com)

In honor of his memory, the city initially converted the pond into baseball fields, dedicating them as PFC Lawrence George E. Strack Memorial Field in 1969. However, the fields were prone to flooding, making them unsuitable for play. In 2004, the Parks Department restored the area to its natural state, reopening the pond to the public and rededicating it to Strack's memory. (leaderobserver.com)

Today, the pond serves as a popular spot for hikers and bird watchers, offering a peaceful environment to connect with nature. Its location, just a stone's throw from Woodhaven Boulevard, provides a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. (leaderobserver.com)

Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks around the pond, observe local wildlife, or simply sit and reflect in the serene surroundings. The area remains a testament to the community's resilience and dedication to preserving natural spaces amidst urban development.