East Meadow Street Renamed After Soldier Killed In Vietnam

EAST MEADOW, NY — Hempstead Town officials joined members of the Glassey family on Lancaster Street in East Meadow to announce the renaming of the road in memory of United States Army Specialist 4, John G. Glassey, a Vietnam Veteran killed in action on April 15, 1969 at Patrol Base Diamond III, near the Cambodian border.

“We are proud to rename Lancaster Street in East Meadow as Army Spec 4 John G. Glassey Street,” said Hempstead Town Supervisor Donald Clavin. “As we gather here, we are reminded of the importance of honoring all those who have served our nation, those who have given their lives in defense of our freedoms and those who continue to make sacrifices so that we may enjoy the freedoms and liberty we cherish so dearly.”

John Glassey grew up on Lancaster Street in East Meadow and he enjoyed playing little league baseball for St. Raphael’s Parish. He attended Meadow Lane School and Woodland School, and he graduated from East Meadow High School in 1967. His first job was as a newspaper carrier for Newsday on Lancaster Street, and he also worked at the local Waldbaums.

Glassey was drafted in to the United States Army in July 1968 via Selective Service. He began his tour on Dec. 13, 1968 and served during the Vietnam War. He held the rank of Specialist 4 and his military occupation was Light Weapons Infantry.

He was killed in action at Patrol Base Diamond III, near the Cambodian border, on April 15, 1969. Glassey is survived by his brother Robert Glassey, who still lives in East Meadow.

“The showing of love for John Glassey is certainly evident here as we are surrounding by family, friends, and neighbors,” said Councilman Dennis Dunne. “As a former United States Marine who also served in Vietnam, I understand the sacrifice of serving our country. This man served bravely in the United States Army and unfortunately, we lost him way too early. I hope that this street sign will be a symbol that will remind generations for years to come of the heroism and courageousness of our brave military and armed forces service members for their service to our nation.”