osimo “Gus” Martinetto, Jr. was born on October 3, 1923 in Cresskill, New Jersey to Cosimo and Linda (Varvello) Martinetto. He passed away on December 1, 2017 at Bay Pines VA Medical Center in Bay Pines, Florida. He is survived by his loving family.
Military
Gus joined the Army at the age of 19 on March 16, 1943 and set of for Europe as the Americans and Allied forces went to war against Nazi Germany. Gus actively served as a radio operator during the initial air offense in Europe, the Battle of the Bulge, the Rhineland, the Rome-Arno Campaign and through Southern France. At the time of his honorable discharge Gus was eligible to wear the Distinguished Flying Cross, four Air Medals, the European African Middle Eastern Campaign Medal, National Defense Service Medal and World War II Victory Medal on his uniform.
Distinguished Flying Cross
Gus was a radio operator on B-17’s from 1943 and throughout World War II. During one of his missions Gus heroically saved the lives of others on the aircraft and was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC). When asked to comment on his DFC Gus simply replied,
“I was just doing my job.”
Services
A graveside service with military honors presented by the United States Army and the Pinellas County Veterans Council is scheduled for Friday, December 22, 2017 at 2:15 pm at Bay Pines National Cemetery. All guests planning on attending should plan to arrive at 2:00 pm.
From Victoria,
Cosimo “Gus” Martinetto Jr.
October 3, 1923 – December 1, 2017
World War II Veteran and recipient of the Distinguished Flying Cross.
Patriot and Family Man, Gus is survived by three children, 6 grandchildren, and 12 great grandchildren. A self-made success in business and real estate, Gus never forgot his humble beginnings when his parents emigrated from Italy with his 2 sisters. Growing up during the depression stamped his heart with both frugality and generosity – giving to charitable organizations like the VFW, Shriner’s Children’s Hospital, and the ASPCA were part of his legacy and passion. He loved his rescue poodles and painted many portraits of them. Among his other passions were running (and winning!) marathons, singing, playing guitar, writing music, and sculpting. This Italian-American was a true Renaissance Man and is truly loved and missed.
