The Shrine of Our Lady of Pompeii, located in the heart of “Little Italy” on the west side of Chicago, recently honored two men in their prayer community, for their services in the US Armed Forces during World War II.

Corporal Philip J. Bartolotta, 96, served in the Army Air Force branch as Military Police. During his service in World War II he was stationed in Europe in Italy, England, and France. As part of his service in the Military Police, he was assigned to General Eisenhower when he came through the areas where Bartolotta was stationed.

Carl Liture, 92, served as Machinist's Mate, 3rd Class in the Navy 1944-1946, aboard the USS Shangri-La, which his crew commissioned in 1944. He also witnessed the signing of the treaty with Japan ending the war as the Shangri-La was moored next to the Missouri. We thank them for their service and for assisting us in continuing the mission of Mary: service to others and prayers for God’s peace in the hearts of one and all. With prayerful blessings, we wish them many more years of faith-filled life with their families.