Carlos R. Lillo Park

Carlos R. Lillo Park. 0.09 acre. , This park honors Carlos R. Lillo (1963-2001), a paramedic for the New York City Fire Department's Emergency Medical Services Division who died while on duty on September 11, 2001. Raised in Astoria, Queens, Lillo began his career in emergency medicine as a volunteer with the Astoria Volunteer Ambulance Corps., As an emergency medical technician (EMT), Lillo joined the city's Emergency Medical Services in 1984. He worked on a tactical unit in some of the roughest neighborhoods in the Bronx during one of the most active times in EMS history. Pursuing his dream career, Lillo attained advanced life saving skills and became a paramedic in 1990. He spoke passionately about not just being a paramedic, but being the best paramedic. He embarked on each day of work with a great deal of gratification and love for what he did as he proudly wore his uniform. Lillo demonstrated his dedication and commitment to the citizens of the city, state and country as he performed his duties on September 11, 2001., The land, which was formerly used as an industrial storage area, was acquired by Parks in 2007. Dedicated the following year, the park's design incorporates a central octagon surrounded on five sides by flowering trees, shrubs, and perennials, with open green space on the other three sides. Four benches are recessed in the planting beds and two game tables accommodate park visitors in a shady garden setting, Carlos Lillo Park serves as a touchstone for the many families who lost loved ones on 9/11 and provides the neighborhood with a place for solace and reflection.