Launched in 2020 to remember the 75th anniversary of the end of World War II, NIAF is recognizing Italian Americans who sacrificed, served and defended peace, freedom and democracy during the war through the #IAWW2Heroes initiative. This entry is a special submission from Michael A. Montopoli, MD, MPH, FACOEM, CAPT USN (Ret), in honor of his late father.

Joseph Michael Montopoli (1922-1999) was born in Rome, N.Y., where his parents Giuseppe and Maria (nee Paolini) Montopoli emigrated from Tocco da Casauria, Provincia di Pescara, Abruzzo. From 1943 to 1945, he served honorably in the United States Navy as Ship’s Serviceman Tailor Second Class (SSMT2).