West Chester World War II Vet Honored In PA State Senate

WEST CHESTER, PA — A 96-year-old West Chester resident and World War II veteran received a standing ovation after being honored on the floor of the Pennsylvania State Senate recently.

Frankie DiSanti, a lifelong resident of the borough, was addressed directly by State Sen. Andy Dinniman (D-Chester County).

“I don’t think I have ever witnessed such a long-standing ovation and warm welcome in the Pennsylvania Senate," Dinniman said upon introducing DiSanti. "It is a testament to the respect, admiration and love we have for Mr. DiSanti and that we hold dear for all of our veterans, especially those members of the Greatest Generation who set the bar in terms of service, courage and sacrifice."

DiSanti was deployed to the South Pacific, and from New Guinea, was on his way to the Philippines with an invasion force when his ship was torpedoed. A total of 168 of his fellow servicemembers were killed.

DiSanti survived, and participated in the Battle of the Luzon, at one point enduring 75 straight days of combat. He suffered a serious hand wound and had to be hospitalized. He later turned down the Purple Heart due to the more extensive trauma he said he'd seen other soldiers suffer. He would go on to earn the Bronze Star.

After the war, according to Dinniman's office, DiSanti married his wife, Ada, with whom he enjoyed 70 years. They had four chidlren, six grandchildren, and 4 great-grandchildren.