American Experience Presents She Never Knew
May 21, 2025
Frank DeVita, a WWII veteran and Coast Guard hero, shares his harrowing experiences on D-Day. He vividly recounts transporting soldiers to Omaha Beach, confronting chaos and unimaginable loss. DeVita discusses the heavy psychological toll of war, emphasizing the struggles veterans face in sharing their stories and reintegrating into civilian life. His reflections on camaraderie and unspoken trauma highlight the importance of listening to and understanding these personal histories, preserving them for future generations.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Eager to Serve After Pearl Harbor
- Frank DeVita grew up in Brooklyn and lied about his age to enlist in the military after Pearl Harbor.
- After failed attempts to join other branches, he found immediate entry in the Coast Guard, which surprised his mother.
The Weight of Sending Soldiers
- War survivors carry the heavy burden of sending others into deadly combat repeatedly.
- Frank’s role in ferrying soldiers into fire left deep emotional scars beyond physical harm.
Caught AWOL at Home
- Frank came home on leave without official papers and was caught as AWOL by military police.
- His father intervened, ensuring he returned to duty without punishment despite being AWOL.