1886-1918

Donald W. Gleason

Donald William Gleason
September 8, 1886 – February 14, 1918

Donald William Gleason was born in Delhi, New York, on September 8, 1886. He graduated from Delaware Academy and studied civil engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute for three years. He later worked on the Barge Canal project, at the Bethlehem Steel Works, and in the Senate Document Room at the U.S. Capitol.

Donald joined the United States Army as an aviation cadet and was stationed at Ellington Field in Texas. He was regarded as one of the Army’s most promising student aviators.

Tragically, he was killed in an airplane accident on February 14, 1918, in Texas City, Galveston County, Texas. In his honor, the Delhi American Legion Post 190 was named after him. His dedication and potential are remembered with pride and gratitude.