Senator George Amedore Inducts Arcangelo Bollella Into New York State Senate Veterans’ Hall of Fame

Senator George Amedore today announced the induction of World War II veteran Arcangelo Bollella, of Catskill, into the New York State Senate’s Veterans’ Hall of Fame. The Senate’s Veterans’ Hall of Fame honors and recognizes outstanding veterans from throughout the state who have distinguished themselves in their service, as well as their civilian life.

“The brave men and women who make the sacrifice to wear our nation’s uniform and serve our country deserve our respect and gratitude, and it is truly an honor to recognize Private First Class Arcangelo Bollella for his service,” said Senator Amedore. “Mr. Bollella’s story inspired me – he came to this country from Italy, and three years later, decided to join the Army and fight for the same freedoms and ideals that brought him here to begin with. He is an American hero, and truly deserving of induction into the Veterans’ Hall of Fame.

Arcangelo Bollella came to the United States from Italy at the age of 18. Three years later, he joined the United States Army and returned to Italy to fight for his new country in the Mediterranean Theater with the 36th Infantry Division. He distinguished himself during the Naples-Foggia Campaign and was awarded the Bronze Star for meritorious service during ground operations against the enemy.


Private First Class Bollella was severely wounded during the war and spent 3 years in the hospital before finally being released. Upon his release from the hospital, he continue to serve his fellow veterans by taking a job as an Elevator Operator for the Veterans’ Administration. He later  retired from the Veterans’ Administration as a Special Tactical Police Officer.

 
Arcangelo Bollella is a decorated soldier who has earned numerous distinctions, including the Bronze Star, the Purple Heart, the World War II Victory Medal,  the European, African, Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with 2 stars, the Good Conduct Medal and the Combat Infantryman Badge


This year’s inductees were honored today at an induction ceremony at the New York State Capitol. Since Private First Class Bollella was unable to attend, Senator Amedore will honor him at a special ceremony on Sunday, June 14^th at 2 pm during Veterans’ Appreciation Day at the Eliot in Catskill, where he currently resides.

###