Out of the Rubble
From World War II Chaos to American Entrepreneurship
by
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Lino's paternal grandfather told others to go steal some food so they would not starve. The citizens of Ceppagna understandably were most distraught over outsiders attempting to steal what little they had. An old man (who would later become Lino's step-grandfather) went out with the sharp implement used to cut down the olives. He returned a few hours later with a side of beef. All ate their fill. Only after the meal did they learn it was a donkey. So, here they were, refugees from their home, facing nothing but uncertainty, suddenly on the "other side" in this war, with death, or the threat of death, their constant companion, but for the moment, not hungry. One American soldier would sum up the feelings of most in his letter written from his pinned-down position with the Allied advancement at Anzio, "Take a combination of fearr, anger, hunger, thirst, exhaustion, disgust, loneliness, homesickness, and wrap that all up in one reaction and you might approach the feelings a fellow has. Rosa was also experiencing all those emotions. Anger towards the circumstances she and Antonio could not affect, anger for life interrupted, fear regarding Antonio's poor health, fear for the life of their little son, exhausted by the efforts required just staying alive, disgusted with the arrogance and corruption of leaders, worried and afraid -- afraid of what tomorrow would bring.
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About the Book
Lino Borraccio was born in the Italian village of San Vittore del Lazio twenty days after Japan shocked the world with a devastating air raid on Pearl Harbor. Lino spent the first months of his life in a house nestled in the mountainous village, secure in the love of his parents and grandmother. World War II raged elsewhere, but not in Lino’s home—until the day his father was called into active duty in Mussolini’s army. In his biography, family friend Alicia Winget chronicles the fascinating life story of Borraccio as he embarked on a coming-of-age journey taking him from his Italian village through the difficulties and triumphs associated with World War II and post-war Italy. Eventually, he became an immigrant and moved to the United States; although he could barely understand English, he would later don an American military uniform in 1961. With incredible detail, photographs, and facts, Winget describes how Borraccio carved out a new life for himself as he became a licensed barber, an American citizen, and a husband who would eventually become a successful entrepreneur. Out of the Rubble shares the inspiring life story of an Italian immigrant who stands as a model and memorial for perseverance, bravado, patience, and hard work.
About the Author
Alicia J. Winget was inspired to tell the rest of Lino Borraccio’s story after his World War II and immigration experiences were presented on a Detroit television station. She lives with her husband in Michigan, where she enjoys spending time with their family, serving on several boards and leading an adult Bible study class.