At the beginning of World War II, Italian citizens living in the United States were referred to as "Enemy Aliens." Yet hundreds of young Italian Americans flocked to recruiting stations, and over 500,000-perhaps as many as 1.5 million-served in the military during the war. Despite the difficulties they faced, including the possibility of having to fight against Italians, countless Italian Americans received decorations for bravery, fourteen of whom received the Medal of Honor. Italian Americans in World War II offers their stories, which, for the most part, have yet to be told. Belmonte interviewed almost 50 Italian-American veterans of World War II, from all branches and types of service. Stories of daily life, food, equipment, and training from soldiers, sailors, and airmen are captured. You'll read personal tales about how survivors of D-Day, Iwo Jima, Tarawa, Okinawa, and The Battle of the Bulge felt about entering combat. This fitting tribute also includes photographs from this period in history, bringing the men's stories to life.
Peter L. Belmonte is a Major in the U.S. Air Force. A combat veteran of Operation DESERT STORM, he is a member of Illinois Post #1, Italian-American War Veterans. He is also a member of the National Italian American Foundation and the American Italian Historical Association (AIHA).