麻豆视频

World War II Veteran Speaks at Delaware Tech for Veterans Day

November 11, 2022

麻豆视频 hosted Ray Firmani, a 101-year-old World War II veteran, as part of its Veterans Day programming on Nov. 11. Firmani was a B-17 co-pilot in the 486th Heavy Bombardment Group of the mighty 8th Air Force in World War II. He completed 25 missions in Germany and France and was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for extraordinary heroism.

College administrators, faculty and staff gathered with community members at all four campuses to honor Firmani and all veterans for their service and dedication. Firmani attended the ceremony held at Delaware Tech’s Wilmington campus that was livestreamed to the College’s three other campuses in Stanton, Dover and Georgetown,. Firmani, the keynote speaker, was introduced by Maj. Gen. Francis D. Vavala, the College’s veterans advocacy specialist, and a longtime friend of Firmani.

“It is an honor to recognize our legacy veterans, who fought for our country and came back and integrated into civilian life to create family lives,” said Vavala. “These brave men internalized all that had happened to them, and it’s important to learn their stories.”

Firmani grew up in Wilmington’s Little Italy neighborhood and has been a Delaware resident for 96 years. A book, Against All Odds: The Ray Firmani Story, has been written about his life. During the Veterans Day ceremony, he shared his background and a series of stories from his time in World War II and beyond. Also, in attendance was Mitch Topal, the author of the book on Firmani’s life.