Playground Dedicated To Fallen Marine Sgt. From Town Of Oyster Bay

LOCUST VALLEY, NY — A playground in Locust Valley has been dedicated to a U.S. Marine Corps sergeant who was killed in Afghanistan on April 8, 2019.

A ceremony to memorialize Sgt. Robert A. Hendriks — a 2012 Locust Valley High School graduate — was held this week at the playground in Thomas Park. The Town of Oyster Bay said Hendriks frequently played in Thomas Park as a child, making the dedication ceremony all the more special.

"Sergeant Hendriks was an exemplary citizen and even after his passing, he continues to be an incredible source of pride for his family, our community, and the entire nation," said Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino. "This hometown community playground will forever serve as a reminder of Robert's extraordinary life, the many lives he touched, and the Town of Oyster Bay's great admiration for his service and ultimate sacrifice in securing freedom and human rights around the globe."

Hendriks was killed in action at age 25, while conducting combat operations in the Parwan Province of Afghanistan, according to military records. He was assigned to Weapons Company 2nd Battalion, 25th Marines in Garden City, New York. Hendriks was deployed as part of the Georgia Deployment Program-Resolute Support Mission — a recurring, six-month event between the U.S. Marines and Georgian Armed Forces that prepares and sends Georgian troops to support NATO in Afghanistan.

It was Hendriks bravery that helped keep Town residents safe, according to Councilwoman Michele Johnson.

"Sergeant Hendriks' sacrifice allowed young people the opportunity to play and laugh with friends and family in the serenity of a beautiful place," she said. "This playground will forever stand to honor Sergeant Hendriks and all of our active military and veterans for their distinguished service."

Thomas Park is located at 10 Elm St., just steps from the LIRR's Locust Valley station.