Tazz Tassinari loved the stories that his father, the late Albano Tassinari, would tell about his service in the United States Army during World War II.
Tazz’s father was a highly decorated parachutist in the 82nd Airborne, who enlisted at the age of 23 in January, 1941, and served his country through August, 1945.
The many medals are a testament to Mr. Tassinari’s heroism in service. He received the Purple Heart, the Good Conduct Medal, the American Defense Service Medal, and the European African Middle Eastern Theater Campaign Ribbon.
Tazz said fond memories of his father are with him every day, but he is especially prideful when Veterans Day is observed each year. Tazz said one his favorite possessions is a diary detailing his father’s service (that was compiled by his stepmother).
“My father was a hero, but he never thought he was a hero,” said Tazz. “I was always proud of my father. My dad was part of Operation Market Garden in the Netherlands,” said Tazz. “The 82nd Airborne conducted combat assaults fighting German counterattacks. He was a machine gunner. My father told me, “our men needed our help and the 82nd was there for them.”
Mickey “Say No To Drugs” Casoli, a war veteran himself and a former Revere police detective, said that Mr. Tassinari was a true American hero who remained humble about his service to the country.
“He was a real gentleman,” said Casoli. “And being in the Airborne, he was a special guy. I think Tazz being so proud of his father is a wonderful thing for him and his family. His father helped save this country.”
Mr. Tassinari returned to East Boston and began doing TV repairs for his “Barno’s TV” business. Mr. Tassinari passed away in 2016 at the age of 98.
It was a life of individual accomplishment and distinguished service to his country.