Angelo Grande of Glen Head describes military service in the 1960s and his life afterwards

I felt that by dedicating myself to helping veterans around the county, I could still do my part to help my brothers-in-arms.”

Angelo Grande, veteran, Glen Head

In the quiet suburbs of Glen Head, Angelo Grande, a local veteran, reflected on a military career that, although it never touched the battlefield, has shaped his life and purpose. Grande recounted his journey from the Army barracks to a lifetime dedicated to supporting his fellow veterans.

Grande’s military service began in the mid-1960s when he enlisted in the Army. “I was just getting out of college and studying a career,” he recalled, “and I figured it’d be a good way to serve my country at that time.”

Serving from 1966 to 1969, Grande spent three years and six months on active duty in the United States and transitioned into the reserves.

Despite never seeing active duty in Vietnam, Grande underwent rigorous training at Fort Dix, New Jersey, enduring basic training followed by specialized training as a radio operator at Fort Gordon, Georgia.

“It was tough living in close proximity with fellow soldiers, sharing everything from restrooms to experiences,” Grande reminisced.

Reflecting on his close-knit group, Grande mentioned two fellow soldiers he befriended from Manhasset, both of whose names had faded from his memory over the long years. While he didn’t form many close friendships during his short time in service, these connections left lasting impressions.

Angelo’s journey took him from the demanding barracks of Fort Dix to the quiet halls of education, where he earned a Master’s Degree in Public Private Administration from Baruch School of Business and a teaching certificate from Long Island University Post.

“I taught for 33 years at the North Shore schools and retired in 2002,” Angelo said, reflecting on his post-military career in education.

After completing his reserve duty, Grande’s commitment to veterans’ causes took center stage. He became deeply involved with the American Legion, eventually rising to become the commander of Post 336 in Glenwood Landing. Grande’s passion for helping veterans grew as he visited facilities in the surrounding areas such as Northport, where he encountered heartbreaking stories of mental trauma and resilience.

Sharing an emotional moment, Grande recounted meeting a former student of his from North Shore High School who had suffered traumatic stress while in the military. “He said, ‘You were my teacher at North Shore High School.’ That was a tragic situation,” Grande reflected, illustrating the profound impact of war on individuals. “I went back a number of times to give him solace, since he’d been in combat and suffered intense mental stress.”

Another veteran he met while serving in the Vietnam War, had been attacked following his service by an anti-war fanatic who accused the veteran of being a “baby killer.” The veteran said he subsequently fell into drug and alcohol abuse, which Grande sadly added was all too common when veterans returning home don’t get the essential support needed to readjust to civilian life.

Grande’s dedication extended to county-level leadership, where he became Nassau County commander for the American Legion. Initiating programs like “Flags Over Nassau,” he aimed to recognize businesses proudly flying the American flag.

Additionally, Grande initiated a service dog program, adopting a dog named Nassau to assist veterans. Service dogs are a proven source of comfort to veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder, and some, like Nassau, were also trained to help pull wheelchairs or fetch items if their owners are physically disabled.

Further emphasizing his commitment to veterans, Grande established a new post, the Admiral Connolly Post, at his alma mater Long Island University Post to provide support for veterans attending college. But due to a lack of support from the college and lackluster membership which ultimately led to the demise of the post, Grande remained connected to his roots. He attended post meetings in his hometown and across the island contributing to ceremonies like Flag Day and Memorial Day.

“I felt that I owed my fellow veterans something,” Grande said. “I felt that by dedicating myself to helping veterans around the county, I could still do my part to help my brothers-in-arms.”

Grande’s story is one of resilience, empathy, and unwavering dedication to those who served, a testament to the enduring impact of a life lived in service of others.