Frank J. DiNuzzo, Jr.

Frank J. DiNuzzo, Jr. was born on May 8th, 1924 in Watervliet, NY to Italian immigrants. He enlisted in the Army in 1943 and, upon completion of basic training, joined the 204th Combat Engineer Battalion. The unit prepared and trained in England for the invasion of France through Normandy. In the early days after the invasion, the unit cleared the beachhead for follow-on forces. The 204th then pushed into Northern France along the Maginot Line to clear a path for General Patton’s armor force. For three days his unit heroically dug out hundreds of personnel and tank mines. For his actions, Frank was awarded the Bronze Star.

On February 10, 1945, the 204th was in Luxembourg supporting the Allies’ assault on the Siegfried Line along the Sauer River. The 204th was tasked to secure and clear the far side of the river, but while crossing the river, they were attacked. Frank was wounded by shrapnel and another battalion member was seriously injured with stomach wounds. Frank displayed complete abandoned for own injuries to save his comrade under heavy enemy fi re and helped the soldier across the river. It was this act of bravery and selfless service which earned Frank the Silver Star and Purple Heart. 

Frank J. DiNuzzo, Jr. was discharged as a Private First Class and upon returning from WWII, Frank met Mary, the love of his life. They married and settled in Watervliet where they raised four wonderful children, Frank III, Paul, Anthony, and Lori. Frank attended Siena College earning a degree in Business Administration.