World War II Navy veteran Robert “Bob” Persichitti passed away at the age of 102 while traveling to France to attend a D-Day 80th anniversary event. Honor Flight Rochester, an organization that honors America’s veterans, confirmed his death on May 31. Persichitti, a New York resident, fought in World War II and witnessed the iconic raising of the U.S. flag at Iwo Jima. He became ill while traveling on a ship to Normandy and passed away peacefully in a hospital in Germany.
Persichitti served as a Radioman 2nd Class on the USS Eldorado during World War II, with tours in the Pacific Theater, Iwo Jima, Okinawa, and Guam. He was honored by the New York State Senate and inducted into the Veterans Hall of Fame in 2020. He actively supported Honor Flight Rochester since participating in Mission 29, working to gain financial and participatory support for the program. Persichitti was stationed in the radio shack with two Navajo Code Talkers, who were top-secret Marine communicators during the war.
Despite growing up in a coal mining town outside of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Persichitti worked as a paperboy to afford transportation to and from high school. On days when he couldn’t afford bus tickets, he hitched rides to class. Stewart, the president and CEO of Honor Flight Rochester, described Persichitti as an active and dedicated individual in the program. He regularly attended Honor Flight events, cheering and supporting veterans during welcome home ceremonies. Stewart emphasized that Persichitti will be greatly missed and was considered a comfortable friend to all who knew him.
Persichitti’s passing occurred on his way to the D-Day anniversary event, where he intended to honor and commemorate the sacrifices made during the war. Despite becoming ill during the journey, he was described as being in good health and active until the very end. His commitment to supporting other veterans and participating in Honor Flight Rochester events showcased his dedication to honoring those who served in the military. His involvement in Mission 29 and subsequent missions demonstrated his passion for recognizing the sacrifices made by veterans.
Stewart highlighted Persichitti’s involvement in welcoming home ceremonies for veterans who participated in the Honor Flight program, emphasizing his enthusiasm and support for his fellow servicemen. Persichitti’s humble beginnings and determination to attend school despite financial challenges spoke to his resilience and strong work ethic. His passing was a loss to the Honor Flight Rochester community, with many expressing their sorrow over the loss of a beloved and respected individual. Persichitti’s legacy as a World War II veteran and his tireless efforts to support his fellow servicemen will be remembered and cherished by those who knew him.
