Robert “Al” Persichitti, from Rochester, New York, suffered a medical emergency aboard a ship heading to Europe and was airlifted to a hospital in Germany on May 30. Despite the best efforts of the medical team, he passed away the following day.
Remembered as a “great, humble man,” Mr. Persichitti played a significant role in the Allied operations in Japan during World War Two. His bravery and service were honored by Honor Flight, a veteran organization dedicated to transporting former US servicemen to war memorials, ensuring their sacrifices are never forgotten.
Mr. Persichitti was selected to attend the Normandy event by the National World War Two Museum in New Orleans, which organized and funded his trip. Just a day before his departure, he expressed his excitement about the journey in an interview with WROC-TV, encouraged by his cardiologist.
Al DeCarlo, a fellow veteran who served with Mr. Persichitti in Japan, accompanied him on the trip. DeCarlo shared with Rochester local media that Mr. Persichitti did not pass away alone. “The doctor was with him… he was at peace and he was comfortable,” DeCarlo said, according to ABC affiliate WHAM-TV. “She played his favorite singer, Frank Sinatra, on her phone, and he peacefully left us.”
The two veterans shared a profound history, having served together in the Battle of Iwo Jima, a critical confrontation where US forces captured the Japanese island in 1945.
Pastor William Leone, a friend of Mr. Persichitti for 46 years, spoke to WHAM-TV, highlighting his zest for life. Mr. Persichitti frequently visited local schools to share his wartime experiences with students. He was also a former teacher, and in April, students organized a special birthday celebration for him.
In recognition of his service, Mr. Persichitti was named an honoree of the New York State Senate’s Veteran Hall of Fame in 2020 by then-Senator Rich Funke. His loss is deeply felt by his local Honor Flight chapter in Rochester and the entire EMC community.
The legacy of Robert “Al” Persichitti will be remembered and cherished, not only for his bravery and service but also for his dedication to educating and inspiring future generations.
