To remember the 75th anniversary of the end of World War II, NIAF is recognizing Italian Americans who sacrificed, served and defended peace, freedom and democracy during the war. This entry is a special submission from Linda Mele in honor of her father.
Benedetto Joseph Matassa served in the U.S. Navy during and post WWII from 1943 to 1947.
Born in Tusa, Sicily, in 1924, he came to the United States when he was four years old.
He lived most of his life in Connecticut, moving to Florida in the 1990s where he passed away in 2002.
“Thank you for recognizing Italian American military heroes,” said Linda.
If you’d like to make a submission to NIAF’s #IAWW2Heroes initiative, email the photo and description to media@niaf.org.
Benvenuti to the NIAF Pensieri Blog 