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Remembering Rep. Charles Rangel: A pioneering politician and war hero who passed on Memorial Day

May 29, 2025 Chris Jameson

Flamboyant, dapper pioneering politician and war hero remembered: The late Charles Rangel, who died on Memorial Day at the age of 94, was remembered fondly by Brooklyn Democratic leadership this week. A powerful voice in congress for over four decades, Rangel was a son of Harlem with huge connections in Brooklyn dating back to the 1970s. Photo courtesy of the Brooklyn Democratic Party

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On Memorial Day, as the nation paused to honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice serving in our armed forces, New Yorkers mourned the loss of one of the city and nation’s most revered and storied public servants — former Congressmember Charles B. Rangel.

A decorated war veteran, a founding member of the Congressional Black Caucus, and a powerful voice in Congress for over four decades, Rangel passed away at the age of 94 on May 26, 2025.

Rangel, a son of Harlem and a hero of the Korean War, was first elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1970. He would go on to serve 23 terms, making history as the first African-American to chair the influential House Ways and Means Committee. Known for his sharp wit, moral conviction and unwavering dedication to justice, Rangel’s legacy is indelibly etched into the fabric of American politics.

“Charlie Rangel was a mentor and a friend,” said mayoral candidate and former New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo. “He taught me that leadership is about lifting others up, and in the face of injustice, you don’t flinch, you don’t fold — you fight. He was a giant in every sense. And though he’s gone, his spirit will echo for generations to come.”

(Governor Andrew Cuomo with Rep. Charles B. Rangel) — Andrew Cuomo with Rep. Charles B. Rangel. Photo courtesy of the Brooklyn Democratic Party

Brooklyn Democratic Party Chair and Assemblymember Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn (D-42) also paid tribute to Rangel’s extraordinary life of service, noting his outsized mentorship for Black Brooklynites.

“I join our community in mourning the loss of Rep. Rangel and pray for his family,” said Bichotte Hermelyn. “A son of Harlem, decorated war hero and founding member of the Congressional Black Caucus, Charlie fought fiercely for our civil rights and empowerment. He rose from humble roots to become a top leader in Congress and a national icon.”

Rangel’s path from the streets of Harlem to Capitol Hill is a quintessential American success story spanning generations — shaped by grit, courage and a deep love of service. After surviving near-death in Korea, he returned home with a renewed sense of purpose. That sense of duty propelled him through law school and into public service, where he became a guiding force for social justice, economic equity and racial progress.

“Charlie was an uplifting mentor who paved the pathway for countless others to achieve immense change,” added Bichotte Hermelyn. “I knew him as a kind, caring and devoted leader for every advocate who was fortunate enough to cross his path. Although he will be deeply missed, we know that his legacy of selfless service and bold leadership will not be forgotten. May he rest in power.”

As the nation commemorates Memorial Day, it’s especially poignant to reflect on Rangel’s military service. He was awarded a Purple Heart and a Bronze Star for his heroism during the Korean War long before his name became synonymous with civil rights and congressional leadership.

Rep. Charles Rangel is joined by legislators (including former Rep. Carolyn Maloney, Letitia James, and Assemblymember Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn). Photo courtesy of the Brooklyn Democratic Party

New York: The birthplace of Memorial Day and home to over 750,000 veterans

Memorial Day has deep roots in New York. In 1873, New York became the first state to officially recognize the holiday, and in 1966, Waterloo, New York, was designated by the federal government as the official birthplace of Memorial Day.

“Our proud history is a testament to our state’s longstanding commitment of honoring and supporting our military heroes,” said Bichotte Hermelyn. “I join my colleagues in reaffirming our debt of gratitude by advancing funding and services for the over 750,000 veterans who call New York home.”

In remembering Charles Rangel, New Yorkers and Americans remarked on being reminded of the power of resilience, service and restoring the arc of justice. On this Memorial Day, not only do Americans honor those who gave their lives in defense of freedom, but they also celebrate a life that stood as a beacon for the next generation.