Vietnam veteran and lifelong community advocate David Brisbane of Bristol has been named the 2025 inductee to the New York State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame by Senator Pam Helming.
Brisbane, a Purple Heart recipient and former Marine Corps Corporal, was honored Tuesday during a ceremony in Albany. His selection recognizes decades of distinguished military service and unwavering dedication to veterans and community causes in the Finger Lakes.
“It is my distinct honor to recognize David Brisbane of Bristol as my district’s inductee into the Veterans Hall of Fame,” said Senator Helming. “Mr. Brisbane is a reflection of the Marine Corps motto: Semper Fidelis—Always Faithful. I am proud and grateful that his name will be included in the NYS Senate Veterans Hall of Fame.”
Brisbane served in the United States Marine Corps from 1964 to 1967, followed by three years in the reserves. His decorations include the Vietnam Service Medal with three stars, Presidential Unit Citation, Navy Meritorious Unit Citation, Combat Action Ribbon, and Rifle Sharpshooter Badge, among others.
After his military service, he spent 47 years at Gleason Works in Rochester, rising from machinist to manufacturing supervisor. He credits Marine Corps discipline for his success.
Beyond his career, Brisbane has remained deeply involved with veteran support. He leads the Marine Corps Toys for Tots program, volunteers with the Canandaigua VA and Honor Flight, and plays a key role in Challenge 22, which raises awareness of veteran suicide. He also organizes Memorial Day and Fourth of July parades, serves in local Honor Guard units, and helped establish Wreaths Across America at Sampson Veterans Memorial Cemetery.
“After a lifetime of service to his country and community, David Brisbane’s acceptance into the New York Veterans Hall of Fame is well-deserved,” said David Wickers, Vice Commander of the Marine Corps League Memorial Day Detachment 468. “Dave is first out the door to support American veterans of any service.”
Regina Deck, Program Manager at the VA Center for Development & Civic Engagement, added, “His impact is consistent, repetitive over the past 13 years, and has touched thousands. It takes a leader like Dave, with credibility, dedication, heart, and honor, to have the kind of impact he makes.”
Reflecting on the honor, Brisbane said, “It was a moving ceremony and wonderful day in Albany.”
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