Co-Oldest Veteran
The Wellesley Celebrations Committee, a standing committee of the Select Board, Town of Wellesley, honors Navy veteran Amos Amalfi as Wellesley’s co-oldest Veteran. He’s also the oldest member of the Wellesley American Legion Post 72.
Here’s his dramatic story:
The Wellesley Celebrations Committee, a standing committee of the Select Board, Town of Wellesley, honors Navy veteran Amos Amalfi as Wellesley’s Oldest Veteran. He’s also the oldest member of the Wellesley American Legion Post 72.
Here’s his dramatic story:
Amos Amalfi, a lifelong resident of Wellesley, Massachusetts, proudly served in the United States Navy during World War II. Born on January 28, 1927, Amos was determined to enlist before turning eighteen and being drafted. After earning an early diploma with honors from Wellesley High School, he enlisted in the Navy in late 1944.
In January 1945, Amos left from South Station in Boston for basic training at Camp Sampson, New York. After training, he traveled across Canada to California, where he served in several Navy supply and waterfront divisions. Amos became part of a fleet service unit supporting the secretive “Magic Carpet” operations, which helped transport troops and supplies at the close of the war.
As the coxswain of Boat No. 8, Amos was responsible for delivering critical supplies to ships during overnight operations that required precision, discipline, and skill. Though much of the work was confidential and rarely spoken about at the time, his service played an important role in supporting Navy operations during the final stages of World War II.
Shortly after, Amos was discharged from the Navy and came home. People wondered what he would do career-wise when he returned home, and the veteran chose to drive a truck for DM Bernardi.
With DM Bernardi, Amos worked on various big projects that still hold weight today. In Wellesley, he helped construct Morse’s Pond, a significant community staple. He worked on North and South 128, toll roads, and making a wet dock into a dry dock at the Fore River Shipyard in Hingham. Amos also worked in Framingham, helping to construct the Bose Corporation Office, and spent time on big projects at Logan Airport.
Amos has another distinction. Besides being the oldest veteran, he’s also brother-in-law to fellow oldest veteran Joe Nickerson.
Thank you Amos and we are lucky to have you.