Army veteran honored at North Brunswick Veteran Street Sign Ceremony

May 14, 2024

North Brunswick honored United States Army veteran Douglas M. Baileyby dedicating Glenridge Avenue and Edgewood Place as Bailey Way on Monday, May 13.

Douglas was born on July 16, 1950 and graduated from New Brunswick High School in June 1968. He joined the United States Army in November 1968. He trained at Fort Dix, New Jersey and Fort Knox, Kentucky in the armored division.

Douglas served in Vietnam with Troop C, 2nd Squadron, 1st Armored Calvary Division from June 1, 1969 to May 31, 1970. He was an Observer/Gunner on the armored tanks and worked closely with the driver to coordinate and maintain safety. Douglas completed numerous combat operations and earned many citations and commendations for his service. He received the Purple Heart for wounds he received in action on June 17, 1969. He also received the Army Commendation Medal with “V” Device for his heroism of mortar and ground attack at the Battle of Song Mao with the US 2nd Squadron 1st Calvary Regimen Blackhawks for continually exposing himself to fire in an effort to hold off the enemy, moving from bunker to bunker, guaranteeing the safety of others.

Douglas joined the Steamfitters and Pipefitters Local Union #9 upon returning from service to our country. He was a journeyman in the industry for 50 years until his retirement, making life- long friends along the way. Douglas truly enjoyed a life of service. He was a giving man who loved helping others, making life a happier place for everyone. He was a communicant of St. John the Evangelist Episcopal Church where he served lunch to residents, he loved to cook, sing and listen to country music and the oldies. His hobbies include camping, fishing and boating in Lake George, New York.

Douglas greatest love was his family. Douglas passed away on May 10, 2022 and is survived by his sister, Susan and her husband, Dr. Thomas Schwartzer, his niece Mary and her husband Donald, their daughter Emma, his nephew Andrew and his wife Stephanie and their son Evan.  

We thank and honor Douglas M. Bailey for his service to our country and community!