Navy Radioman Who Died in Helicopter Crash While Serving Honored During Emotional Memorial Day Ceremony on St. Croix

Family members of Omar A. Duparl joined community and officials at a poignant ceremony to honor his service and sacrifice

When Navy radioman Omar A. Duparl died in 1987 in a helicopter crash over the Persian Gulf, his name became lost amongst the records of the thousands of other Virgin Islanders who have lost their life while serving in the military. On Monday, Duparl’s life was remembered and his name permanently etched into history during the Wreath Laying Ceremony at the Verne I. Richards Veterans Memorial Park in Frederiksted.

“Mrs. Durparl, yesterday was the last day your husband's name would not be on at the memorial,” said Patrick D. Farrell, Director of the Virgin Islands Office of Veterans Affairs, addressing Duparl’s widow during his remarks at the Memorial Day event. Around three months ago, one of the late veteran’s family members contacted Farrell, informing him that Duparl’s name was not on any of the memorial statues in Frederiksted which commemorate every Virgin Islander whose life was lost in service. During Monday’s ceremony, a plaque bearing Duparl’s name was duly placed on a statue at Verne I. Richards Veterans Memorial Park.‌