THE GREATEST GENERATION
It has been said and reported that the Americans who lived through the World War Two era were the gretaest generation.
I can attest that I have fond memories of at least three of them. First, my father who did not serve in the military but worked as a welder at the Brooklyn Naval Shipyard. His skills were used to build the battleship Iowa and other vessels that went off to war.
Second was Admiral Chester W.Nimitz although he was retired at the time, I had the proud distinction to be assigned as his attendant when he was admitted to the Naval hospital where I was stationed at the time. He related his experiences that held me captive, but he also wanted to hear from the enlisted men that were also assigned to him.
Thirdly, was a gentleman known as Amerigo ( Rick) Cimino who lived in our community of Palm Coast, Florida. Rick was born in Carbondale ,PA on October 6, 1923. Rick was a veteran of the U.S.Army. and served as a Military Policeman in France and Germany. He did not speak much of his war experiences, but he did once mention to me that he was at the Battle of the Bulge.
Rick settled in Palm Coast in 1977 in a small house in the Woodlands section. He had joined many of the social clubs in this “new” town at the time. He was always there to help anyone at any time, anywhere.
I first met Rick when he attended one of the Fraternal Order of Police lodge meetings along with his good friend John Caia. Because of his service with the military police, he was made eligible to join our lodge. He was always helping out with any event we were having. Although he was over ninety years of age at the time, he had amazing vigor and vitality. He attributed his good health to having a daily glass of red wine. Always smiling and volunteering when something had to be done. No one ever heard him complain.
We had an event at the Daytona Beach baseball stadium to which we were offered refreshments. When Rick arrived, he was chauffeuring a group of veterans who were patients at the veteran home nearby. Most of these vets were of the Viet Nam era. Many were of poor health and needed assistance. And here they were being driven by Rick who I found out that he had paid for their admission.
In 2017, Rick had fallen which confined him to be non- ambulatory. John Caia, who was Rick’s buddy, took him into his house and cared for him., Sheriff Rick Staley visited Rick and presented him with a one hundred year anniversary badge. Rick had a smile on his face a mile long.
Rick's condition worsened, and in 2018 Rick passed away. The hordes of people who came to his funeral was amazing. The largest the funeral director had ever had for anyone else.
We have a picture of him at our lodge, he is holding a World War Two plaque that was presented to him. When you visit the lodge, please take a moment to view this picture which is on the left wall as you enter and quietly thank Rick for all he did for our lodge and the community. He is still missed by those who knew him.
Submitted by Ron Conklin
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This is a really touching tribute to the individuals who were part of the "Greatest Generation" and made such a significant impact on the world, both during and after WWII. We highlight two key people who exemplify the strength, dedication, and humility of that era— Admiral Chester W. Nimitz, and Amerigo "Rick" Cimino. Each of these people contributed in different but meaningful ways, both on the battlefield and at home.
Rick’s story is especially inspiring. Despite his age and health challenges, he continued to serve his community with generosity and spirit, even helping veterans from a different era. His story reminds us of the quiet but powerful ways in which many of that generation lived—selflessly, without seeking recognition.
It’s clear that Rick's impact on those around him was immense. The fact that so many people turned out for his funeral, and the way his picture is honored at the lodge, shows the depth of love and respect people had for him. You’ve painted a picture of someone who not only served his country, but also embodied the values of service, kindness, and humility long after his military career.
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Rick receiving badge from Sheriff Staly
Rick's placques are on display at our Lodge