Congresswoman Nita Lowey recently presented three overdue service medals to the family of Anthony Giaccio, a deceased Navy veteran of World War II, at a ceremony in White Plains. Among those who joined Congresswoman Lowey for the ceremony were Mr. Giaccio’s son Anthony P. Giaccio of Hawthorne, the village administrator of Sleepy Hollow, and grandchildren of the deceased veteran.
“These medals are a testament to Mr. Giaccio’s distinguished service to our country, and I’m deeply honored to be able to present them to the Giaccio family and to pay tribute to Mr. Giaccio,” said Congresswoman Lowey. “Even after his passing, Mr. Giaccio’s legacy lives on, and I know his family will be enormously proud and inspired every time they look at these medals and think about his service and sacrifice.”
Congresswoman Lowey presented Mr. Giaccio’s family with the Asiatic Pacific Campaign Medal, the Honorable Discharge Button (Navy), and the Honorable Service Lapel Pin. Mr. Giaccio had previously been issued two other medals: the World War II Victory Medal and the American Campaign Medal.
Mr. Giaccio served on active duty from March 31, 1943, until his honorable discharge on November 19, 1945. He was a Gunner’s Mate, Third Class, who served aboard the USS Adopt (AM-137) in the Pacific Theater. The Adopt was a minesweeper and escort vessel, which after operations off California, Hawaii, and Alaska, was transferred in July 1945 to the Soviet Navy under Lend-Lease. Mr. Giaccio died in August, 1992. His family was going through his effects earlier this year and contacted Congresswoman Lowey to obtain any medals for which he might be eligible.
Veterans or family members who believe they or a loved one are eligible for service medals should contact Lowey’s White Plains District Office (914-428-1707) or New City District Office (845-639-3485).