Higgins, Weinstein present Amherst WWII veteran with Bronze Star

Bruno Yetto served as a criminal investigator for U.S. Army in Germany, is founding member of organization that started Williamsville's "Old Home Days"

Congressman Brian Higgins and Town of Amherst Supervisor Dr. Barry Weinstein recently presented the Bronze Star and additional military commendations to World War II veteran Bruno Yetto.

"Mr. Yetto demonstrated extraordinary commitment to his country and, when he returned home, extended the same devotion and generous spirit to his family and community," Higgins said. "It is our honor to share his story and recognize his contributions on behalf of a grateful nation."

Weinstein added, "The citizens of Amherst appreciate both your military and community service. Your military career exemplifies what makes America a great nation. We are pleased to see you receive these honors you so richly deserve."

Born on Oct. 12, 1925 in Kane, Pennsylvania, Yetto enlisted in the U.S. Army at the age of 18 and began his service Dec. 15, 1943, amidst the nation's involvement in World War II.

Yetto was activated as an infantryman serving bravely in the U.S. efforts on the western front of the conflict in Europe and was later promoted to scout. After months relaying essential combat information, Yetto rose through the ranks again earning the title corporal. He was assigned to intelligence and reconnaissance training at Fort McClellan, Alabama, in 1944 and, upon completion, served in detachment F-12, 2nd Military Government Battalion in the European Theatre of operations in Rhineland, Germany, as a criminal investigator.

Yetto investigated crimes committed by German civilians against the Allied Forces. He called witnesses in for questioning prior to criminal cases and would work toward the prosecution of defendants during trials. Upon the conclusion of his distinguished service, Yetto was Honorably Discharged May 18, 1946.

Three years later, Yetto married his wife, the former Gloria Amodeo, and they lived in North Buffalo before moving to Amherst to raise their family. Over the years, he worked in the food industry, serving as a butcher for a family business and eventually retiring from Will Poultry Co. Today, Bruno and Gloria are the proud parents of three children: Robert, Mark and Karen, as well as 12 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

In the early 1970s, Yetto became a charter member of the Jolly Boys of Williamsville, a group dedicated to initiatives benefiting local youth. Through this organization, he helped found Williamsville's annual "Old Home Days" celebration.

For his brave and commendable military service during the Second World War Yetto was presented with the Bronze Star Medal, Good Conduct Medal, European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with two Bronze Service Stars, World War II Victory Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, and Honorable Service Lapel Button.