By THERESA BROWN -- On Friday, March 25, Senator Jack Reed honored Frank Amalfetano, a 93-year-old Warwick resident with five medals for his service during World War II.
This item is available in full to subscribers.
We have recently launched a new and improved website. To continue reading, you will need to either log into your subscriber account, or purchase a new subscription.
If you are a current print subscriber, you can set up a free website account by clicking here.
Otherwise, click here to view your options for subscribing.
Please log in to continue |
|
On Friday, March 25, Senator Jack Reed honored Frank Amalfetano, a 93-year-old Warwick resident with five medals for his service during World War II.
Having enlisted in the Navy at the age of 18, Amalfetano took part in the D-Day invasion of Nazi-controlled France by Allied forces. Amalfetano played a vital part in transporting British soldiers to Gold, Juno and Sword Beaches during the invasion. Later, he spent three months at Normandy working with Army engineers to make it possible for a dock to be built so soldiers and supplies could be dropped off.
Senator Reed discovered that Amalfetano had never received his medals while talking at a recent Boy Scout event.
In saying a few words about his time in the Navy, Amalfetano remembered his brother Anthony, who was killed in action during the Battle of the Bulge, and showed his appreciation for all those who lost their lives fighting alongside him during World War II.
Amalfetano also shared a funny memory with his family and Senator Reed. He explained that after serving in World War II, he visited West Point with his wife Victoria and a friend. When they drove up to the gate, guards saluted them with raised rifles. Victoria was terrified and ducked under the dashboard yelling, 'they're going to shoot us.'
The medals awarded to Amalfetano include the American Campaign Medal; the European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with 1 Bronze Service Star; the World War II Victory Medal; an Honorable Discharge Button; and an Honorable Service Lapel Pin (Ruptured Duck).
“Frank Amalfetano is a true patriot and it is an honor to present him with these long overdue medals and our enduring gratitude for his service. In addition to Mr. Amalfetano, we also recognize his brother and brothers-in-arms who sacrificed everything for the freedom of all of us,” said Senator Reed. “We are grateful to Frank for serving his country with great courage. We must continue to recognize, honor, and celebrate our World War II veterans and all who serve their nation for their great contributions and achievements.”
Comments
No comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here