On the road

On the road

Wednesday, December 12, 2012

Honor Flight DFW trip #10 Profiles


 

Ambrosio was working for the Herman Supply House as a deliveryman on Sunday, December 7, 1941. On that day his world would change as well as thousands of other men and women around the country.

He entered the U.S.Navy on July 28, 1944 as a Seaman Apprentice.

Ambrosio eventually made his way to the South Pacific and participated in the invasion of the island of Okinawa. His job was the operation of the U.S.Navy’s landing craft known as “Higgins Boats.” These craft were an innovation that was unknown up until WWII. The front of the craft was hinged and allowed troops to exit forward instead of jumping off the sides. This was seen as safer and more efficient.

It was also very hazardous duty as the drivers had to place themselves high enough in able to see over the ramp at the front of the landing craft. Many times, these drivers were singled out by gunners on shore to be hit and possibly disable the craft.

He also had the duty of taking his craft onto the beach and transporting the wounded off the beach onto hospital ships offshore.  

Ambrosio was awarded the WWII Victory Medal with one star. He was discharged from the Navy in July of 1946.

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