Peter P. Fantasia Biography

The following information was provided by the Somerville Department of Veterans' Services:

Peter P. Fantasia was born February 15, 1916 in Boston, Massachusetts. He entered the U.S. Army on March 26, 1941 at Camp Crowder, Missouri, trained as a medic, and eventually reached the rank of Technician Third Grade. He went overseas on August 27, 1944, and fought with the 26th Infantry Division through Northern France and into the Rhineland region of Germany.

In addition to the Good Conduct Medal and European-African-Middle eastern Campaign Ribbon, Mr. Fantasia received the Silver Star medal – the second most prestigious award the United States military bestows. He earned this award by continuing to care for his wounded comrades even as his position was overrun by the enemy – actions that caused him to go missing in action and eventually become captured as a prisoner of war. His Silver Star citation reads as follows:

For gallantry in action on 12 November, 1944.  Technician Third Grade Fantasia, an aid man, was attached to Company L which suffered casualties during the initial attack and capture of Rodalbe, France.  At all times under heavy enemy fire, he moved about coolly administering aid and comfort to his wounded comrades without letup.  When our forces were subjected to a strong enemy counter attack lead by tanks, causing additional casualties, he courageously continued administering vital aid to his wounded comrades, without regard for his personal safety.  When the enemy attack inside the town increased to such an extent that movement to a better position outside the town was ordered, Technician Third Grade Fantasia refused to leave, preferring to remain in the town to aid his comrades who were wounded too seriously to permit immediate evacuation under the heavy fire.  He was last seen administering aid to his wounded comrades as our troops left the town and is now missing in action.  His brilliant display of courage, devotion to duty and solicitude for his wounded comrades exemplifies the highest traditions of the service and reflects the greatest credit upon Technician Third Grade Fantasia and the armed forces of the United States.    

Mr. Fantasia returned from Europe on June 11, 1945 and received an honorable discharge from the Army three months later. More than sixty years later, he still resides right here at 67 Boston Street – his home when he entered the Army during World War II.