Astoria Welfare Society USA Inc. has honored NYPD Officer Gabriel Tobar of the 114th Precinct for his significant contributions to the Bangladeshi-American community in New York. A recognition ceremony was held on Monday evening, August 4, at a local restaurant in Astoria.
The event commenced with a moment of silence to honor Detective Didarul Islam Ratan, who was fatally shot by an armed assailant while on duty on Park Avenue in Manhattan. Attendees also reflected on his life and service to the city.
The program was presided over by Shohel Ahmed, President of the Astoria Welfare Society, and conducted by General Secretary Jabed Uddin. Distinguished guests included Dr. Masudur Rahman, NYPD Sergeants Michael Murphy and Asmat, Abu Taher (Editor of Bangla Patrika and CEO of Time Television), senior journalist and author Saeed Tarek, and Shahab Uddin, President of Al-Amin Mosque.
Speakers included Shamsul Haque, founder of the Bangladesh American Police Association (BAPA), BAPA member Syed Enayet Ali. Vice President of the AWS koyes Ahmed, advisor committee Chowdhury Saleh, Abdur Rahman, Dewan Shahed Chowdhury and among others. Officer Gabriel Tobar was presented with a commemorative plaque in recognition of his dedicated community service.
Leaders and members of the Astoria Welfare Society were present in full support, making the event a heartfelt tribute to both past and present contributors to community safety and cohesion.
