Vincent Speranzi

Vincent J. Speranza was born in 1925 in New York City. His parents were immigrants from Italy. He was a good student and graduated from high school in 1942. 

When his family learned of the attack on Pearl Harbor, his father told his four sons he was too old to enlist, but he expected them to do so. He went on to say how wonderful the U.S. was -- you can come here with nothing and become something; it must be defended. All the boys wanted to fight, but none were old enough. 

Vincent was drafted at age 18, and, in October, he went to Fort Penning, Georgia, to train. After more training, he joined the 87th Infantry, and, after seeing the 101st paratroopers do a demonstration, he volunteered. After training, he sailed on the Queen Mary to Europe and, later, was trucked into France. 

The Battle of the Bulge was beginning, and the 101st put up a stronghold at Bastogne. Vincent's machine buddy was injured, and when he visited him, the buddy just wanted a drink. Vincent went into the demolished town and found beer but nothing to put it into. He used his helmet to contain the beer and took it to his buddy. As a result, those nearby wanted beer. Vincent helped until the beer was gone. He made a second beer run but was caught. 

Vincent returned home, married, and becane a teacher. At age 85 years old, he returned to Belgium to find out his beer run was famous. Airborne Beer served in a helmet was everywhere in the country. His remaining years included recognition for his service and famous beer run. 

Courtesy of American Veterans Center