For the past 29 years I have resided in Manhasset and I find it hard to believe that leaders of several civic groups are objecting to the naming of a street here after Officer Joseph Coote, who was gunned down in the community trying to stop a supermarket robbery.

I'm sure that those who objected to honoring this police officer were not aware that, at the time of his death, Joseph Coote had a little 2-year-old daughter, Elizabeth and that his wife, Georgiana - my dear friend - was expecting her second child in a few days.

That baby, Joseph Coote Jr. graduated from St. Mary's High School here in Manhasset. He never knew his father, who gave his life protecting the residents of this community. I'm proud that Manhasset is showing its appreciation to this family!

Patricia Wilde