Alfred W. Pezzella
Alfred Pezzella's story begins in 1915 in Newton, Massachusetts, where he was born to Consiglia and Raffaele Pezzella. Growing up in Waltham, MA as the youngest of five siblings and the only boy, Alfred was surrounded by the love and care of his family. His four older sisters, Marianna, Annete, Clara, and Katherine were born in Italy, but Alfred was the only one born in the USA, several years after his next oldest sister.
The Pezzella family's journey to America was one of hope and opportunity, yet it was also marked by challenges. In Italy, the patriarch of the family, owned land and raised horses as a rancher, but Consiglia saw greater prospects for her daughters in America, hoping they would marry into wealthier families. However, upon arrival, they found themselves working in factories to make ends meet.
Alfred's childhood was marked by his struggles with weight, but as he reached his mid-teens, his fascination with airplanes ignited a passion within him. Determined to work closely with aircraft, he embarked on a journey of self-improvement, running and adopting healthier eating habits to meet the physical requirements of joining the US Air Corps.
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The 1940s in the United States were marked by a strong sense of patriotism and duty towards the war effort. War propaganda posters were a powerful tool used to encourage people to join the military, buy war bonds, and conserve resources. These posters were a constant reminder of the war's importance and the need for everyone to contribute.
Unable to afford flying lessons, Alfred saw enlisting in the Army as his only chance to work with planes. He was tired of the factory work him and his family engaged in, and desired something greater for his life and his career. There was only one problem: he stood just under the height requirement to enlist. Inspired by his desire to further his career, he was determined to join the air corps by any means. He ultimately overcame his short stature through an unorthodox approach: sleeping on the floor. In the weeks leading up to his enlistment he committed to this regimen, having read that it could help straighten out your back. Remarkably, his perseverance paid off, as he managed to gain the additional height required, barely scraping past the stringent requirements for enlistment.
Alfred's bond with his family, particularly his niece Francis, was evident in the joy and laughter they shared. Despite the challenges of wartime, he remained lighthearted and caring, always ready to lend a helping hand. When Francis faced missing her senior prom due to her fiancé's deployment, Alfred stepped in, escorting her in his military uniform and ensuring she didn't miss out on the experience. Alfred’s niece, Anne Ferry describes a fond memory she has of Alfred picking her up and spinning her around when she was only 2-3 years old. A memory that has lasted for over 80 years.
Described as handsome, charismatic, patriotic, and having a great sense of humor, Alfred Pezzella embodied the spirit of countless men who sacrificed their lives in service of their country during World War II. His story is a reminder of the bravery and selflessness of those who answered the call of duty, leaving behind a legacy of honor and sacrifice that continues to inspire generations.
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