June 6th 2024.
It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of the passing of Robert Persichitti, a World War II veteran who tragically died while on his way to a D-Day commemoration event. At the age of 102, Robert, also known as 'Al', was part of a group of veterans who were traveling to France to attend the 80th anniversary ceremony.
According to reports, Robert fell ill while on a ship in the North Sea and was immediately transported to a hospital in Germany by helicopter. Despite the efforts of medical professionals, he sadly passed away shortly after. Hailing from Rochester, New York, Robert served in the Pacific theater during the war and had the honor of witnessing the iconic moment when the US Marines raised the flag at Iwo Jima.
In 2019, Robert had the opportunity to visit Iwo Jima once again and it was an emotional experience for him. So when the National World War II Museum Group invited him to join them on a trip to Normandy, he didn't hesitate to say yes. As a member of the Honor Flight Rochester, a veteran's organization, Robert was not alone on his final journey as he was accompanied by a doctor and listening to his favorite Frank Sinatra song.
Before leaving for France, Robert shared with local media that his cardiologist had given him the green light to make the trip despite his history of heart problems. During his time in the war, Robert served as a radioman second class on the USS Eldorado and played a crucial role in aiding communications during operations in Iwo Jima and Okinawa. His bravery and dedication did not go unnoticed, and in 2020 he was honored with a spot in the New York State Senate's Veterans Hall of Fame.
Richard Stewart, the president of Honor Flight Rochester, fondly remembered Robert as a fit and upright man with the energy and sharp mind of someone decades younger. He was truly a remarkable individual. After the war, Robert pursued a career as a high school carpentry teacher in Rochester and often visited local schools to share his experiences with the younger generation. He will be dearly missed but his legacy will live on through the stories he shared and the lives he touched.
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