Robert “Al” Persichitti, a 102-year-old World War II Navy veteran from Fairport, New York, passed away peacefully in a hospital in Germany while en route to France to commemorate the 80th anniversary of D-Day. Persichitti’s friends and family shared that he had been eagerly looking forward to this trip.
Persichitti had attended many World War II remembrance events in Washington and Louisiana, and was determined to make it to the D-Day ceremony as well. However, he fell ill during a stop in Germany last week and unfortunately passed away. A friend who was traveling with him shared that he passed away while listening to his favorite singer, Frank Sinatra.
The National WWII Museum in New Orleans expressed their condolences for the loss of Persichitti, calling him a “longtime friend.” Persichitti enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1942 and served as a radioman on the USS Eldorado during World War II. He participated in the invasions of Iwo Jima and Okinawa and witnessed the iconic moment of the U.S. flag being raised atop Mount Suribachi.
Before departing for Europe, Persichitti shared that his cardiologist encouraged him to go on the trip, which added to his excitement. A retired public school teacher, he frequently spoke about his wartime experiences in schools and community events. He had also written an autobiography for his family in 2015. Despite his passing, Persichitti’s dedication to honoring the sacrifices of wartime veterans lives on through his stories and memories shared with others who knew him well.
Persichitti’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations as they learn about the bravery and sacrifice of those who fought for freedom during World War II.
In conclusion, Robert “Al” Persichitti was a dedicated veteran who traveled across countries to honor fallen soldiers from WWII at D-Day ceremony before passing away peacefully while listening to his favorite singer Frank Sinatra during a stopover in Germany last week at age 102 years old.
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