Dansville World War II Veteran Honored at Pennsylvania Ceremony
The following story by Marcie Schellhammer of the Bradford (Pa.) Era was originally published on September 2, 2025, in the Olean Times Herald under the headline “WWII veterans honored.”
V-J Day Commemoration at Eldred World War II Museum
On September 2, 2025, Veterans Dick Bondi and Bernard Adams were honored at a ceremony held at the Eldred World War II Museum in Pennsylvania to commemorate V-J Day.
Veterans Dick Bondi, left, and Bernard Adams pose with Pennsylvania state Sen. Cris Dush, back left, and Pennsylvania state Sen. Doug Mastriano at the Eldred World War II Museum.
Freedom Medals Awarded
During the event, Bondi and Adams received Freedom Medals, noticeable on a blue lanyard around Adams’ neck.
Dick Bondi’s Service and Legacy
Dick Bondi, a native of Geneseo now residing in Dansville, served in the U.S. Navy aboard the submarine Caiman during World War II.
- A 1943 enlistment photo of Bondi was displayed at the ceremony.
- He demonstrated a submarine periscope to his friend Vince Disalvo at the museum.
- Bondi was surrounded by family members following the ceremony.
- Photographs captured Bondi with Vince and Lore Disalvo after the event.
Navy veteran Dick Bondi, right, shows his friend Vince Disalvo, left, a submarine periscope at the Eldred World War II Museum.
The event highlighted the sacrifices and contributions of World War II veterans like Bondi and Adams, ensuring their stories remain alive for future generations.
Author's summary: This ceremony in Pennsylvania paid tribute to World War II veterans Dick Bondi and Bernard Adams, recognizing their service and honoring them with Freedom Medals during the V-J Day commemoration.