MAHOPAC- James DiPelesi remembered the day like it was yesterday.
On Dec. 7, 1941—the day Japanese troops attacked Pearl Harbor, the 100-year-old World War II veteran residing in Mahopac, was watching a motion picture with his buddy at a Queens theater when the film was halted and a manager appeared announcing that Pearl Harbor had been attacked by enemy aircraft.
The elderly gentleman recalled: “My friend and I began looking to the sky figuring we were next. As a matter of fact, I didn’t sleep a wink that night listening for airplanes.”
The following year at the age of fifteen he changed his Baptismal certificate to age 17 and enlisted in the Merchant Marines.
After several tours overseas, DiPelesi reenlisted in the U.S. Navy where he participated in Arctic convoys during World War II traveling from the United Kingdom during the war to the northern ports of Arkhangelsk and Murmansk.
On Friday, thanks to Carmel’s incoming Supervisor Robert Kearns, DiPelesi was named as the Town of Carmel’s first Veteran of the Year recognizing the service, sacrifice, and ongoing dedication of those who served our country and continue to give back.
Putnam County Executive Kevin Byrne congratulated the honoree telling him and a gathering at Carmel Town Hall: “Jimmy represents the very best of the Greatest Generation.”
DiPelesi had previously been honored for his patriotism and service to the country.
Two years ago, Congressman Mike Lawler stopped at Carmel Town Hall and presented the World War II veteran with a Merchant Marine Congressional Gold Medal.
Congress authorized the award through special legislation.
Lawler described the honored guest as a “member of our greatest generation for patrolling the perilous waters of the North Atlantic. We are honored to have you with us and overjoyed that you have dedicated your life to your country, your state and your county,” said Lawler.
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