Village recognizes 2026 class of Hometown Heroes

The Village of Glenview recognized 10 exceptional service members as Hometown Heroes at the Board of Trustees meeting on Tuesday (May 6) night.

Now in its third year, the Hometown Heroes program is a partnership between the Village and the Joseph M. Sesterhenn American Legion Post 166. The initiative honors U.S. military service members, past and present, who have lived in Glenview or share a strong local connection. Each year, up to 10 honorees are selected through public nominations and recognized with boulevard banners displayed along Glenview Road. 

The 2026 class represents the United States Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps, with service spanning nine decades. This year’s honorees include decorated combat veterans, navigators, specialists and more whose service took them across the globe before returning home to build lasting legacies in Glenview.

2026 Village of Glenview Hometown Heroes

• First Lieutenant John Beaulieu, U.S. Army – A decorated World War II B-29 navigator and bombardier who later became a respected Glenview banker and civic leader.
• Specialist Daniel Behnke, U.S. Army – A specialist turned counter-intelligence officer whose military service was followed by decades of public service and community life in Glenview.
• Lieutenant Colonel Christopher Brennan, U.S. Air Force – A highly decorated pilot and commander who supported major global military operations over a distinguished career.
• Petty Officer First Class Russell Dempsey, U.S. Navy – A longtime Naval Air Station Glenview aircrewman whose decades of aviation service included global deployments and extensive training leadership.
• Private First Class James Douglas Sr., U.S. Army Air Corps – A World War II communications specialist who supported historic Pacific missions and remained a devoted Glenview community member for decades.
• Technician Fourth Grade John Olson, U.S. Army – A World War II automotive specialist who served in the Battle of the Bulge and supported Allied leadership during critical European campaigns.
• Sergeant James Riley, U.S. Army – A World War II and Korean War veteran whose service spanned Atlantic crossings, frontline combat, and decades of family life in Glenview.
• Chief Petty Officer James Rushmeyer, U.S. Navy – A Glenview native and Naval Air Station Glenview servicemember whose 24-year career reflected steadfast dedication to both country and community.
• Corporal Patrick Ryan, U.S. Marine Corps – A Marine sharpshooter whose service during the Vietnam era was followed by a global career and lasting roots in Glenview.
• Sergeant John Weber Jr., U.S. Marine Corps – A World War II veteran who saw intense Pacific combat and later built a lasting family legacy in Glenview.