Political Quotes

“today I pay tribute to a great Rhode Islander and patriot, BG Amedeo ``Armie'' C. Merolla, Rhode Island Army National Guard, RIARNG, retired, who passed away last week at the age of 88. Mr. Merolla was born in Providence and graduated from Mount Pleasant High School before attending Brown University and Harvard Law School. At Brown, he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve, beginning what would become a 36-year career in service to our country marked by distinction and numerous decorations. In 1955, Mr. Merolla enlisted in the RIARNG and was later commissioned as a first lieutenant in the Judge Advocate General Corps. The U.S. Senate approved Mr. Merolla's appointment to the rank of brigadier general in 1984, making him the first Italian American to become a general officer in the RIARNG. Indeed, he was part of a generation of Italian Americans who served with distinction, bringing great pride to this community while becoming an integral part of the fabric of our State. He was subsequently appointed assistant adjutant general and deputy commanding general--Army of the RIARNG. Even after his retirement in 1987, Mr. Merolla continued to serve. He was appointed commander of the Rhode Island State Defense Force, where he served until 1997, and to the honorary rank of major general in the Rhode Island Militia in 2005. Mr. Merolla's military service was considerable and noteworthy, as was his legal career and contributions to his community and our State.…”