Robert ‘Al’ Persichitti, a 102-year-old World War Two veteran, passed away en route to the 80th anniversary commemoration of D-Day. Persichitti served as a radioman second class on the USS Eldorado, a command ship used during World War Two, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. He was part of the operations during the Battle of Iwo Jima and the Battle of Okinawa, and witnessed the iconic raising of the American flag at Iwo Jima from the deck of his ship.
In 2019, Persichitti returned to Iwo Jima with his friend, history teacher Al DeCarlo, to reflect on the sacrifices of young soldiers during the war. This year, Persichitti was invited to attend the D-Day 80th anniversary events. However, he fell ill while on a boat in the North Sea and was airlifted to a hospital in Germany, where he passed away.
DeCarlo shared that Persichitti was not alone at the time of his death; a doctor played his favorite Frank Sinatra songs as he peacefully passed away. After his military service, Persichitti became a school teacher and frequently shared his wartime experiences with students, forming a lasting friendship with DeCarlo through these visits.
Persichitti’s story is a testament to the bravery and sacrifices of those who served in World War Two, and his dedication to educating future generations about the realities of war. His passing marks the loss of another member of the Greatest Generation, whose experiences and stories continue to inspire and educate.
