William Embrendo

Description

William Embrendo

EARLY LIFE

William Embrendo was born on May 11, 1896, in Avigliano, Italy, the son of Carlo and Carmela Genovese Embrendo. He immigrated to the United States in 1912 and settled in Rye, New York, where he lived on Crooke Avenue.

Like many young men from southern Italy, he emigrated in search of greater economic opportunity than was available in his native region.

At the turn of the twentieth century, Rye and nearby communities relied heavily on immigrant labor, particularly from Italy. Embrendo worked as a tinner, a skilled trade involved in sheet metal and construction work, reflecting the important role of immigrant craftsmen in the development of the region.

WORLD WAR I SERVICE

Embrendo registered for the draft on June 5, 1917, in the Town of Rye, New York, listing his residence on Crooke Avenue and his occupation as a tinner. At the time, he was not yet a U.S. citizen.

He was inducted into the United States Army on June 24, 1918, at Westchester County, New York.

He was assigned initially to the 152nd Depot Brigade and was later transferred to the Medical Department, where he served as a Private First Class beginning January 15, 1919.

The Medical Department played a critical role within the American Expeditionary Forces, providing care to wounded soldiers, managing field hospitals, and supporting the health and recovery of troops during combat operations.

Embrendo served overseas in France from September 9, 1918, to July 19, 1919, participating in the final phase of the war and the post-Armistice occupation period.

His record indicates no wounds received in action, and he was reported as having no disability at the time of discharge.

He was honorably discharged on July 25, 1919.

POSTWAR LIFE

Following the war, Embrendo returned to civilian life and continued his work as a tinsmith in the construction industry, building a stable life in Westchester County.

He later resided at 74 Wesley Avenue in Port Chester, New York.

He was a member of Corpus Christi Church and was active in the Italian American Protective Association, reflecting continued ties to both his faith and immigrant community.

William Embrendo died on February 24, 1981, at United Hospital at the age of 85.

He was survived by his wife, Angelina DePalma Embrendo; two sons, Carl Embrendo of the home address and Vincent Embrendo of Port Chester; two brothers, Giuseppe and Pablo Embrendo of Italy; and two grandchildren.