Italian American war veterans collection

Collection

Identifier: D.380

Staff Only

Biographical / Historical note

The New York posts of the Italian American War Veterans began in 1937. A post would later be established in Rochester. The organization dedicated itself to preserving the honor and memory of those veterans who had served in any foreign conflict, as well as to continue Italian cultural traditions. In 1958 Robert Dardano Sr. joined the Monroe County Post No. 26 and served as Chaplain. He was later elected as the post's Commander in 1963. In 1968, Dardano received the honor of the position of National Commander. Through Dardano's leadership, the posts began a Veterans Volunteer Service Committee (VAVS). This committee coordinated volunteers and efforts to aid confined veteran patients. Other community service efforts include a child welfare program and the patriotic and Americanism program, which organizes celebrations for Memorial Day, Fourth of July, and Veterans Day.

Scope and Contents

The Italian American War Veterans Collection consists of three series: Testimonial Dinner Dances, 1960-1996, Conference Programs, 1947-2006, and Correspondence and Appointments, 1958-1981. The first series documents the community activities the Monroe Post engaged in. The conference programs include both state and national conferences. Included in the Correspondence and Appointments series are documents related to the founding of the Monroe Post, as well as the national organization, communication among members, and records of appointments to leadership positions within the organization.

Creator

Italian American War Veterans of the United States, Incorporated (Organization)

Dates

Creation: 1947-2006

Language of Materials

English

Extent

10 linear feet

Access

The Italian American War Veterans Collection is open for research use. Researchers are advised to contact the Rare Books, Special Collections, and Preservation Department prior to visiting. Upon arrival, researchers will also be asked to fill out a registration form and provide photo identification.

Use

In consultation with a curator, reproductions may be made upon request. Permission to publish materials from the collection must be requested from a curator. Researchers are responsible for determining any copyright questions

Immediate Source of Acquisition

The Italian American War Veterans Collection were made a gift of Robert Dardano Sr in 2010, with subsequent accruals.

Preferred Citation

[Item title, item date], Italian American War Veterans Collection, D.380, Rare Books, Special Collections, and Preservation, River Campus Libraries, University of Rochester