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."
Veterans Honored at Eldred World War II Museum
Veterans Dick Bondi and Bernard Adams were honored at the Eldred World War II Museum on September 2, 2025, during a ceremony commemorating V-J Day. Both veterans received Freedom Medals, with Adams wearing his medal on a blue lanyard.
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 on Sept. 2, 2025, where V-J Day was commemorated.
Dick Bondi’s Service and Commemoration
- Dick Bondi of Dansville served in the U.S. Navy during World War II.
- His enlistment photo dates back to 1943.
- A native of Geneseo, Bondi is shown during his service on the deck of the submarine USS Caiman.
- At the ceremony, Bondi shared a moment showing a submarine periscope to his friend Vince Disalvo.
- After the event, Bondi was surrounded by family members at the museum.
- Vince Disalvo, Dick Bondi, and Lore Disalvo posed for a photograph following the V-J Day ceremony.
Navy veteran Dick Bondi, right, shows his friend Vince Disalvo, left, a submarine periscope at a display at the Eldred World War II Museum in Eldred, Pa.
The ceremony was attended by Pennsylvania state Senators Cris Dush and Doug Mastriano, honoring the veterans for their service and dedication.
Author’s summary: World War II veterans Dick Bondi and Bernard Adams were honored at the Eldred Museum with Freedom Medals and a V-J Day ceremony, celebrating their naval service and sacrifice.