Bronx elected officials joined the Van Cortlandt Park Alliance (VCPA) on Thursday, May 16, to honor two Bronx veterans who have played key roles in preserving Memorial Grove during the alliance’s annual Spring Shindig gala and fundraiser.
Herb Barret, a Korean War veteran and longtime Bronx resident, received the VCPA’s “Betty Campbell-Adams ‘The Betty’ Park Angel Award,“ which recognizes individuals dedicated to enhancing the park. The award is named in memory of the beloved owner of nearby Lloyd’s Carrot Cake, a longtime supporter of the park.
James Hendon, Commissioner of the New York City Department of Veterans’ Services, was presented with the Cultivating the Bronx Award for his commitment to restoring Memorial Grove. Hendon, who frequently visits the park with his wife Frieda and their family, has been a strong advocate for hon
Council Member Eric Dinowitz presented both honorees with official proclamations from the City Council, commending their shared dedication to Van Cortlandt Park and for preserving the legacy of Bronx veterans.
“Herb Barret’s tireless advocacy to preserve Memorial Grove ensures the sacrifices of Bronx veterans are never forgotten, while Commissioner Hendon continues to serve this city with vision and compassion,” said Dinowitz.
Originally designed in 1949 by the New York City Parks Department in collaboration with Peter G. Lehman of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Memorial Grove was created to honor Bronx veterans who died in World War II. The tribute featured plaques commemorating 21 fallen soldiers, set within a peaceful grove shaded by oak trees—chosen for their enduring symbolism of strength and resilience.
Over the years, however, the site fell into disrepair, prompting Barret to lead an effort throughout the late 2000s to restore the grove. Citing issues like overflowing trash from nearby barbecues, Barret rallied support and helped secure City Council funding to rehabilitate the memorial.
In 2012, the Parks Department completed a major restoration of the site, which included replacing damaged plaques, planting new vegetation, and installing a perimeter fence. Barret continued to serve as the grove’s informal caretaker—raking leaves, replacing missing American flags, and placing artificial flowers at the base of each plaque.
Since Barret first discovered the neglected grove in the early 2000s, the city has made multiple investments to enhance and expand the site. In 2018, a new marker was installed to honor Bronx veterans who died in the Vietnam War. Most recently, in 2025, two benches were added to commemorate local service members lost in the Iraq and Afghanistan wars.
It’s a decades-long effort that Assembly Member Jeffery Dinowitz witnessed firsthand as one of the first elected officials to back Barret’s efforts to restore the memorial.
“This space has now become a historically significant location in Van Cortlandt Park, honoring the memories of our fallen soldiers,” Assembly Member Dinowitz said. “The remarkable passion and persistence these men have displayed has benefited our community greatly, ensuring that the sacrifices of our veterans will be recognized for generations to come.”
Stephanie Ehrlich, Executive Director of VCPA and organizer of the Springtime Shindig, said that the VCPA owed Barret and Hendon recognition for their commitment to keeping Memorial Grove a reverent and respectful space for Bronxites.
“We were honored to celebrate Herb Barret and Commissioner Hendon at our annual gala, and I thank our elected leaders for their steadfast commitment to uplifting our community and for championing our work.”
But elected officials didn’t disregard the other purpose of the “Spring Shindig,” raising money for the VCPA. Council Member Dinowitz presented a $102,000 check to the alliance to support the nonprofit’s environmental education programs, youth internships, and conservation initiatives which benefit Bronx youth and community members.
“Our parks are sacred spaces for history, reflection, and learning – and this investment will help protect that legacy for generations to come,” said Dinowitz.
Ehrlich also emphasized the need for ongoing investment in Bronx green spaces, highlighting their vital role in supporting youth development, strengthening the local economy, and promoting long-term environmental sustainability in the borough.
“This generous investment by Council Member Dinowitz is essential to our work,” said Ehrlich. “It allows us to present programs that connect Bronx youth to nature, create environmental jobs, and care for the natural resources that make Van Cortlandt Park so special.”
