The City of Glen Cove will host its annual Memorial Day observances on Sunday, May 24, and Monday, May 25, continuing a longstanding tradition of honoring the men and women of the United States military who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country. All events are rain or shine.
This year the city will honor the life and sacrifice of John “Jack” Niles McCarthy, Specialist Four, U.S. Army Infantry, who was killed in action on May 24, 1969, during the Vietnam War at just 20 years old.
A Glen Cove resident, McCarthy served as an Infantry Indirect Fire Crewman with A Company, 2nd Battalion, 1st Infantry, 196th Light Infantry Brigade. He entered the Army voluntarily in February 1969. He was killed in Quang Tin Province, South Vietnam, by hostile small-arms fire.
For his service, he was awarded the Purple Heart, Combat Infantryman Badge, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal and Vietnam Campaign Medal. He is remembered for his courage, sacrifice and dedication to his country and community.
“Memorial Day is a time for our community to come together and remember those who gave everything for our freedom,” Mayor Pamela Panzenbeck said. “We honor their sacrifice, we stand with their families, and we remain deeply grateful for the courage of all who have served.”
Major Fred R. Nielsen, USMC (Ret.), will serve as Grand Marshal of the 2026 Memorial Day Parade in recognition of his distinguished military service and continued dedication to veterans.
Sunday, May 24Military Banner Ceremony & Wreath Laying12 p.m.Location: Morgan Park Parking Lot
The observances will begin with the Military Banner Ceremony, followed by wreath-laying at Morgan Park (WWII Monument), Doughboy Monument (Glen Cove Library), Ford Street Monument, Elm Avenue Monument, Calgary AME Cemetery and St. Rocco’s Monument.
Monday, May 25Memorial Day Ceremony11 a.m.Location: Monument Park (in front of First Presbyterian Church)
Memorial Day Parade12 p.m.Route: Begins at Cottage Row and Forest Avenue and proceeds through downtown Glen Cove
Source: LI Press
