Veteran’s Legacy Project

What would you like to share about your loved one’s service and dedication within the military?

Dominick DeMasi enlisted in the US Navy and served on the Air Craft Carrier USS Monterey, 26th Fleet, in the South Pacific. He participated in many military campaign battles until the Japanese surrender.

Mr. DeMasi served on the USS Monterey, with President Gerald R. Ford, during the same dates of service. They survived a severe ship fire during a major storm in the Pacific, despite General Halsey giving them the order to abandon ship. With little chance of survival, and at the command of President Ford, the shipmates of the Monterey, including Mr. DeMasi, were able to put the fire out and negate Halsey's command to abandon ship, which ultimately saved hundreds of lives from almost certain death.

On Veteran's day in 2013, Mr. DeMasi was personally invited and recognized by the Ford Family, in Newport News Virginia, during the Christening ceremony of the USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78), the first of a new class of nuclear powered aircraft carriers built. The ceremony was attended by over 20,000 spectators, as well as special guests including Donald Rumsfeld, Former Vice President Dick Cheney, Henry Kissenger and the Governor of Virginia.

What is your favorite memory of your loved one? This does not have to be related to his/her military service.
Dominick DeMasi was a loving supportive person, with an amazing sense of humor who always cherished time spent with his Wife, 5 Children, 9 Grandchildren and 4 Great Grandchildren.