A Valiant Effort for Charles

Dear Editor:

On Saturday, August 9, the Rockaway Beach Volleyball League (RBVL) were having their final tournament games at Gateway-Riis Park. It was a beautiful day for teams, players and spectators.

Unfortunately, a local resident and RBVL player, Charles Nopper (Retired NYC Sanitation Dept.), suffered a massive heart attack. There was a quick response by RBVL members, spectators, FDNY EMS, NYPD 100 Precinct, U.S. Park Police and others to assist Charlie Nopper.
Unfortunately, there is no trauma hospital on the peninsula and transportation of Charlie would have to be made to Ruth Ginsburg Hospital (formerly Coney Island Hospital) in Brooklyn. Being that it was midafternoon on a Saturday, the traffic conditions on the Belt Parkway could be difficult to navigate, and time was of the essence. I personally called Sgt. Ross of Highway 2 (Flatbush Ave.) and quickly explained the situation on hand, and if he could have a Highway Unit available at the West bound entrance of the Belt Parkway to assist in escorting EMS and 100 Pct Officers. I gave Sgt. Ross my cell number, and he assured me that he would have a unit at the parkway entrance, for a continued escort. PO Fredrick Tkatch of Highway 2 called me to communicate as to the EMS approximate timetable and ETA to the parkway entrance. PO Tkatch stayed in communication until EMS was in his sight and proceeded to assist in the escort to the hospital. As a true professional, he texted me as to the arrival at the hospital.
Unfortunately, with the best efforts of all first responders, and many others, Charlie passed away.
Although I did not know Charlie personally, what I have heard, Charlie gave to New York City and the Department of Sanitation, in life, what he richly deserved on his final day on earth…the grit, determination and extraordinary efforts of others like him, who valiantly tried to save his life. (Unfortunately, I did not get the names of all who came to Charlie’s aid.) FDNY EMS, NYPD 100 Pct, U.S. Park Police, and so many others, but a special personal thanks to Sgt. Ross and PO Fredrick Tkatch of NYPD Highway 2, who answered my call and request without hesitation. Thanks to all first responders and many others, whose names may be unknown, but your efforts are praised.

RIP Charles Nopper.

Kenny Monahan