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WWII veteran, Roger Desjardins, turns 100 – John A. Cianci
by John A. Cianci, veterans writer
Other members of ITAM 100 club: WWII Veterans Caster Salemi, 102, Arthur Mederois, 10, Bill, Soule 101, and sitting Louie Dolce, 100.Â
Rhode Island World War II veteran Roger Desjardins turned 100 years old today.
It was hell, said World War II veteran Roger Desjardins describing his combat experience while serving with the 43d Infantry Division during World War II.
He was discharged in 1946. Desjardins will hark back to those who tell him go to hell, “don’t tell me to go to hell because I’ve been there,” Desjardins. Desjardins is feisty, often challenging those who thinks his age limits his ability. During his 99 birthday celebration, Desjardins challenges.
On Thursday, North Providence Mayor Charlie Lombardi had a birthday party for Desjardins. “It seems wherever you see Desjardins, you see Mayor Lombardi,” said John Cianci, State Commander of the Italian American War Veterans of US.
“I love this guy,”Lombardi says.
Desjardins attributed turning 100 to exercising every day and remaining active.
He was telling me how he used to cycle until he gave it up at 98,” said Wendy Cianci, friend. Not just a trip around the block. He told me he logged more miles on his bike than most people put on their cars annually.
Desjardins has been quite busy in his nineties. Going to Washington DC on Rhode Island Fire Chiefs Honor Flight. He was the oldest and laid the wrath at the Tomb of The Unknown.
On his bucket list include going to an Army-Navy game, which came to fruition last year at the first Army-Navy game held at Gillette Stadium with the assistance of the Italian American War Veterans of US.
One unfulfilled bucket list is to receive the purple heart for his injury in WWII. “I was in a foxhole when a hand grenade was thrown in.” said Desjardins, blowing out my eardrums.
According to Desjardins, Office of Senator Jack Reed assisted him a few years ago and was unsuccessful in obtaining military records on the incident.
“We have been very successful in assisting veterans obtain records after one of our congressional delegations have been unsuccessful,” said Cianci, Veteran Service Officer for the Italian American War Veterans of RI.
“No stone will be unturned to obtain records that will support his injury in WWII,” said Cianci.
On Halloween, don’t be surprised to see Desjardins out trick or treating with his adult daughter.
When asked what his birthday wish is for this year, Desjardins replied. Desjardins birthday wish is to live another year.
RINEWSTODAY salutes this living American Hero, U.S Army WWII hero PFC Roger Desjardins.