ENS SALVATORE BALESTRIERI, USN

Class 1944

Born May 14, 1920

Died June 1, 1944

Age 24

Hometown Buffalo, New York

Lucky Bag Yearbook

From the 1944 Lucky Bag:

Salvatore Balestrieri

Sporting a live and let live philosophy, Sam joined our ranks after two years’ service afloat. His explosive personality made him a subject of good humor, and his company was always appreciated. Possessing the tenacity of a bull dog, his head was never turned until the job at hand was successfully concluded. Although motivated by a desire to succeed, Sam was not a bookworm. He found a wealth of enjoyment in clean living, good music, and constructive interests. His unselfish efforts in behalf of the “Dago” buckets will long be remembered. Cautious, but a sure bet as far as he goes, the confidence and respect of his men is assured.

The Class of 1944 was graduated in June 1943 due to World War II. The entirety of 2nd class (junior) year was removed from the curriculum.

Loss

From Find A Grave:

Salvatore served as a Ensign, USS Herring (SS-233), U.S. Navy during World War II.

He resided in Erie County, New York prior to the war.

Salvatore was declared “Missing In Action” when the Herring was sunk by Japanese shore defense batteries on Matua Island during the war. He was awarded a Purple Heart.

Service # 0-282791

Other Information

From researcher Kathy Franz:

Salvatore was born in Bagheria, Sicily, and he was named for his grandfather. His father John came to Buffalo, New York, before Salvatore and his mother Carmella came in 1924. John was a roller in a steel plant, and sons Antony and Elio were born in the late 1920s. Salvatore graduated from high school, and in 1940 he was a seaman on the Naval Base in Norfolk.