Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

Rest in peace Officer Gleason.

Rabbi Lewis S. Davis

January 12, 2023

Danny, I remember when I was out of the Academy in 1985 and I was placed with you on a Police Wagon. One time I was driving and got a Police Assist by Civilian by Phone. I was flying and you told me take it easy it's only by civilian call. It was. You taught me a few things with your mild mannered voice. I'm retired now, my son is a phila police officer for 19 years now. His son is a phila police officer now in the 25TH DISTRICT. He carrys my Badge number now. I don't let them forget of what happened to you. I pass once in a while on Broad St. and Sedgley St. and it hurts all the time what happened to you and P/O Venable. Venable had graduated with me too. God Bless you and your Wife in Heaven.

EDWIN OCASIO, Retired.
Philadelphia Police.

December 8, 2022

I salute you Sir! May you rest in peace.

Sergeant Richard Gunning (Ret)
Moorestown NJ

June 10, 2021

On this actual anniversary of your heroic and untimely death I’d like to reiterate my previous reflection and say that your law enforcement family will always remember. God Speed and God Bless your wife who I hope is with you as you both watch over your family from above.

Detective Cpl/3 Steven Rizzo
Delaware State Police (Retired)

June 5, 2021

Thank you for your service and please know that your sacrifice will never be forgotten by your law enforcement brethren.

Detective Cpl/3 Steven Rizzo
Delaware State Police (Retired)

November 4, 2020

I remember this incident. I lived about half a mile away from where this happened. I ended up joining the force months later in November of 1986. I had applied on the advice of an Officer whom I later worked with named Chuck Lorman. I used to walk my dog and she loved to pull on the leash when saw Chucks Police car because he always had a treat. We talked about the danger and I used to listen to the police radio crackle with activity. I wanted to be in on that. We talked about Officer Gleason being shot. Chuck said just be careful. Wow. What a flashback. RIP hero Gleason. You will never be forgotten.

Ted Thomas
Philadelphia Police Dept.

June 5, 2019

I never knew Danny but I remember this incident well. No one could have lived in Philadelphia and not remembered it, or the visual of that grieving family. This year, on 9-11, we will open our school with a tribute to all those who put their lives on the line each and every day to keep us all safe. We will "light our town" in support of these heroes. We will give tribute to them, and share the story of this officer, who fell way too soon. Thank you for continuing to keep this story alive so our youth can continue to learn from it.

Elaine McDowell, Principal
Holy Trinity School, Morrisville, PA

August 28, 2015

Time may have passed but you are not forgotten. I believe as long as someone remembers you or speaks your name, you are still with us.
Thank you for your heroism.
GOD Bless

Detention Officer A.Zambito
Texas

June 6, 2015

A Hero in Heaven, always remembered and never forgotten.

Kim Weigand Mom of Sgt. Mike Weigand
PA C.O.P.S.

June 5, 2015

Hey Danny, officer down yesterday at 21st and Lehigh. Robert Wilson from the 22nd. reminded me of Sedgley Av. that day. Big hugs brother and you still spell your name wrong. ;) check on Wilson. reminded me of you from what I've read. Gods grace brother.

p/o edw. Russell Gleeson#6449
2202 Wagon in 1986

March 6, 2015

Off. Gleason,
Back in the early 1980's, I met you and P/O Horton as you were patroling in 2505 wagon and the advice that you gave me about joining the Philadelphia Police Department really hit home and helped me accomplish my dream of becoming a Philadelphia Police Officer. The ironic twist to the story is that when I was promoted to sergeant I was sent to the 25th District. I would drive around to the spots where me and the guys would chat with you and Jack and the memories that were made will never be forgotten. You were one helluva cop and I thank you for all you did for me and my family.

Lt. John Gorman
Philadelphia Police Department

May 31, 2014

When I was in my 20’s, my father gave me a very important piece of advice that I carry with me and use daily in my life. He told me that only true measure of a man is his children. Well Officer Gleason, I never had the honor or privilege to meet you in person, but I have been honored to know Danny, CJ, Judy, Irene, Barry and Amanda.
Officer Gleason, I can assure you that you are one outstanding example of a man ought to be. Even in your absence, your children continue to reflect a positive light on your memory, and prove what a great man you were during your time with them. You can rest peacefully and proudly, knowing that your children are carrying on the values and work ethic that you instilled in them from a very young age. They are shining examples of the caliber of man that you were.
Job well done sir.....

Trevor Drake

October 27, 2012

Think of you today Danny, as I often do, and of Pam. Remembering the many times we hung out together at your home and cherishing the kindness you both showed to me. Thinking of your deep love and devotion to your children and the example you have been to me of what a loving husband and father is. I will never forget either of you. I am a better man because of knowing you. You and Pam were among the most loving and compassionate people I have ever known. I miss you both, and I always will. Thank you Danny, and thank you Pam. May God richly bless your children and grandchildren.

Joe McMullin
Friend

August 15, 2012

To fully appreciate the heroes of the present, we must recognize our heroes of the past. Your heroism and service is honored today, the 26th anniversary of your death. Your memory lives and you continue to inspire. Thank you for your service. My cherished son Larry Lasater was a fellow police officer who was murdered in the line of duty on April 24, 2005 while serving as a Pittsburg, CA police officer.

Time never diminishes respect. Your memory will always be honored and revered. Rest In Peace.

I pray for solace for all those that love and remember you for I know both the pain and pride are forever. Your family is in my heart's embrace. Thanks to your family and friends for sharing thier memories and devotion to you through their reflections. Thinking of your wife Pam today too.

Phyllis Loya
Mom of fallen California Officer Larry Lasater, Pittsburg PD, eow 4/24/05

June 5, 2012

Officer Gleason,
I just wanted your family and friends to know you and your wife are not forgotten. Yesterday I sent a reminder out to my co-workers to participate in Project Blue Light. I encourage anyone who reads this to do the same. It is officers like you that made me so proud to wear the badge for more than 25 years. God Bless you and your family.

Cpl. Bruce Lohr, Retired
Howard County PD Maryland

November 19, 2010

Danny to this day I think about you and when we were growing up. God bless you and your family, Vince

Dsg. Vincent J Dolan
New Jersey State Police

October 28, 2009

I was watching the six oclock news today and heard a name I haven't heard in some time. I grew up in Germantown and hung out with Danny. He was a wonderful guy, kind and gentle. I also marched for Lang McCann Drum and Bugle corp with Pam Craig. She too was a wonderful person we all had good times during those times. I have special memories of each one. Pam's parents were the two nicest people I have ever met. I always wondered what happened to her 6 children. I wish them all the best. May Danny, Pam and the Craig's rest in peace and watch over their children.
Debbie Cahill

Debbie Cahill
Friend

October 28, 2009

Wow, so I sit here at my desk trying to write a small speech for tomorrow. For tomorrow my father gets his plaque ceromony. It has been a long time since I said goodbye to him but, as I stumbled upon this page and read what everyone has said, my eyes start to well up and again I become very sad. I will give this speech in front of all of the people who mean something to me and my family. Here is where I remember how special he really was. Thank you all for posting your thoughts on here. I really appretiated it. And thank you to all the men and women in blue. You too are truely appretiated....

Daniel Gleason
Son of a hero

October 27, 2009

May God Grant Officer Gleason's Family, Fellow Officers, and Friends, the Serenity to accept the things they can not Change, the Courage to Change the things they can, and the Wisdom to know the difference....Rest In Peace Blue Angel,, You will not be forgotten..

Officer Debra McFall Ross
East Buffalo Twp Police Dept Lewisburg, Pa

June 5, 2009

You're never far from my thoughts Danny, we had some great times together, as well as some tough ones. Chic & I miss talking and kidding with you & Pam and the kids. I know you're still around lending a hand when needed, so thanks for sticking with me. I love you two and the Good Lord willing I hope to see you again someday.

Retired.....Jack Horton
Phila Police....Buddy, Partner, Brother

August 22, 2008

It has been over 20 years but I remember the senseless murder of Officer Gleason as if it were yesterday. I remember it being said that he grew up in Germantown, as did I. I remember he lived in Oxford Circle. My folks lived nearby, in Lawncrest. I remember seeing television footage of his wife Pam, running into the hospital. I remember the sadness of hearing he died, leaving a wife and 6 children. I remember wondering how on earth she would be able to raise 6 children on her own. I remember the shock and sadness of hearing that she, his widow, herself was killed in a car accident, a few years later. I remember wondering, sadly, how those 6 children would manage. I lived in Roxborough at the time and I recall reading that Officer Gleason's in-laws, Jim & Dolly Craig, would then raise the children. I understand both the Craigs are now deceased. Still, I wonder about the children. I hope that, despite your loss and tragedies, things worked out for you all.

And, one for "it's a small world".... My father-in-law passed away recently. He is buried in Holy Sepulchre Cemetary. We went to visit him yesterday, on Father's Day. How surprised I was to see that he is buried right across from Officer Gleason and his wife Pam. While I never really forgot, seeing the Gleason headstone yesterday just brought back those memories and prompted me to come here today.

Officer Gleason and his wife, Pam, may you be at peace and rest, with the Lord. To the Gleason children, despite your losses and tragedies, may you have found peace and happiness in your lives.

Dennis McGlinchey

June 16, 2008

June 5 2008. As I wrote this date today, I filled with tears remembering that day 22 years ago. It felt as if it was yesterday as I told the story to one of my coworkers. I had to leave a reflection today. Not to remember that you did too soon, but, to remember you lived and remind your children, others who did not know you, and those who did what a wonderful man you were and how many lives you touched. Rest in Peace, Dan, you are still missed by so many.
You will NEVER be forgotten.
Kelly

Kelly
Friend/neighbor

June 5, 2008

May you always rest in peace and know that you will never be forgotten.

Cpl/1 Steven Rizzo
Delaware State Police

June 5, 2008

Thankyou OFFICER GLEASON for your service and sacrifice. You are a true hero and will never be forgotten.

POLICE OFFICER 9TH DISTRICT
PHILA PA

February 7, 2008

"The Badge"

He starts his shift each day
To respond to calls unknown.
He drives a marked patrol car.
A police officer he is known.

He's paid by the citizens' taxes
To make it safe on the streets.
But he usually has a second job
'Cause a waitress has his salary beat.

Now he doesn't know a holiday
'Cause he works all year round.
And when Thanksgiving and Christmas finally arrive
At his home he cannot be found.

He's cursed and assaulted often,
The one whos blood runs blue.
He seldom ever gets a thanks,
To some he's just a fool.

His friends are always other cops
'Cause people just don't understand
That underneath his badge and gun,
He's just another man.

He knows there might not be a tomorrow
In this world of drugs and crime.
And he gets so mad at the court system
'Cause the crooks don't get any time.

And each day when he leaves for work,
He prays to God above.
Please bring me home after my shift
So I can see the ones I love.

But tonight he stops a speeding car,
He's alone down this ole' highway.
It's just a little traffic infraction.
He does it everyday.

Well, he walks up to the driver's window,
And his badge is shining bright.
He asked the guy for a driver's license,
When a shot rang through the night.

Yes, the bullet hit its mark,
Striking the officer in the chest.
But the Department's budget didn't buy
Each officer a bullet-proof vest.

So he lay on the ground bleeding.
His blood wasn't blue - His blood was red.
And briefly he thought of his loved ones
'Cause in a moment the officer was dead.

In the news they told the story
Of how this officer had died.
And some who listened cared less,
But those who loved him cried.

Well, they buried him in uniform
With his badge pinned on his chest.
He even had his revolver,
He died doing his best.

Written By:
David L. Bell
Sergeant
Richland County Sheriff's Department
Columbia, South Carolina
Used with Special Permission of the Author
Copyright © 1999 - All Rights Reserved
and may not be duplicated without permission

Investigator David L Bell
Richland County Sheriff's Dept., Columbia, SC

January 24, 2008