George Perrone is a first-generation Italian-American. His parents came from the community of Matera in southern Italy. As he grew into adulthood, Perrone learned about the role his Matera relatives played in the resistance movement during World War II. This included skirmishes that drove the Germans out of Matera on Sept. 20, 1943. One relative, an uncle who was a priest, helped Jews escape from Austria into Italy; for this, he was executed by the Germans.

 

 

Matera, Italy. The tower in the background was used by the Germans.

 

Matera, Italy

 

The tower in Matera, Italy, used by the Germans to shoot at members of the resistance.

 

Father Mirabene, executed by the Germans for helping Jews escape into Austria.

Published by Maureen Sullivan