Most people know that I’m the proud grandson of William “Wild Bill” Guarnere. Something pretty special happened last night. My wife and I were watching the companion episode of “Band of Brothers,” entitled “We Stand Alone Together.” Well, my grandfather is featured quite a bit in that episode, and my daughter, who just turned 2, has never seen it. Anyway, she was playing with her toys in the vicinity when she must have recognized my grandfather’s voice emanating from the television. She wandered over, pointed to the screen and said “grandpop” in her little voice. She watched for a moment, and then moved on. That she recognized him onscreen, and especially in that context reminded me of how proud I am of the entire Guarnere family, and I was also reminded that had it not been for my grandfather, I wouldn’t be here today.

On this Veteran’s Day, Thanks, “Grandpop,” for all your sacrifice, and to all the vets who helped secure our freedoms.

1. Makes it worth while. Something similar happened when I took my youngest daughter to Italy and visited a war cemetery. I owe it your Granddad. I wrote him about it. He wrote back. Imagine my surprise. What a guy.

   Ciao a tutti da Canada!

   Marzio

   Posted by Marzio Apolloni | November 23, 2006, 4:24 pm

2. He is quite the guy. He still surprises me after all these years. Thanks, Marzio, from a Philadelphia Italian to a Canadian Italian. I didn’t know Canada housed any eye-talians! Teach those canadians the proper way to make gravy, and swap the Moosehead for Moretti.

   Posted by Gino Guarnere | November 24, 2006, 11:50 pm

3. Don’t worry! Moretti and Peroni always at my house! But I’m not sure about the gravy….that’s mangia cake food!

   All the best to your family, and of course a special hello to your Nonno.

   Posted by Marzio Apolloni | March 11, 2007, 7:20 pm