By William Tauro

This event is absolutely something that is very close to my heart! My father, after migrating from Italy, joined the United States Army. He became a sergeant under General Patton in the tank division. He told me in his own words the complete story of how it broke his heart that he had to go back to Italy and fight his own people, but he was an American citizen now, and he had to do what he had to do!

He made many friends with the soldiers that were fighting overseas in Europe, many from Massachusetts. After the war many of them remained very close friends to the end. I had the absolute pleasure meeting a big majority of them, listening very closely to their heartfelt stories and absorbing their sacrifices in my mind that remains with me to this day. I salute everyone of these brave soldiers for their bravery, dedication, honor and all that they endured protecting our freedom. That’s called patriotism! 🇺🇸 PS:Growing up during my childhood, General Patton‘s personal chef “Sal”was our next-door neighbor who held me on his lap when I was a baby as well! Like I said, they were friends to the end!
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Honor Local Veterans on National Purple Heart Day
Somerville has been named a Purple Heart City by the Military Order of the Purple Heart organization, joining more than 100 municipalities in Massachusetts and more nationwide in recognizing those who were wounded or killed in combat for their country. As a Purple Heart City, Somerville will be added as a stop on the national Purple Heart Trail.

To celebrate Somerville’s designation and honor local Purple Heart Recipients, the City is hosting a ceremony on National Purple Heart Day, Monday, August 7, at noon at the Dilboy Post 529, 351 Summer St. All are welcome. The City will also illuminate City Hall and Prospect Hill Tower in purple and raise the Purple Heart flag at City Hall and the Dilboy Post.

To learn more about the event or share the name of a Purple Heart Recipient to be recognized, please contact the Somerville Department of Veterans’ Services at veterans@somervillema.gov or 617-625-6600 x4700.