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The Vietnam War

Voices of the Vietnam War: Rosita’s Story

One woman shares the story of her brother — Lewis Albanese, who lost his life in the war — and the ripples of that loss.

By Charles Costanza
June 9, 2017

Editor’s note: This KCTS 9 video is part of a larger series of local stories featuring people impacted by the Vietnam War. The promotional series is being produced in conjunction with the airing of The Vietnam War, a 10-part, 18-hour documentary film series directed by Ken Burns and Lynn Novick, the first episode of which airs on Sept. 17, 2017 on KCTS 9.

Lewis Albanese was only 20 years old when he was killed honorably protecting his platoon from enemy fire.Rosita shares the story of her brother, Lewis Albanese, and her family’s experience during the Vietnam War.  Lewis was only 20 years old when he was killed honorably protecting his platoon from enemy fire. He was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor (read the official citation here), the only Italian-born American to receive the Medal of Honor during the Vietnam War. 

The following news reel is a production of KCTS 9. 


SUPPORTED BY



Charles Costanza

Charles is a 25-year veteran producer creating a wide range of broadcasting content including social media content, education, public affairs documentaries and live-action filmmaking. He has received several awards as a director, writer, videographer and editor. Charles grew up in Florida, Oregon and spent over 20 years living abroad in Australia. Costanza is a graduate of Washington State University and is a keen fly fisher (always catch-and-release!). More stories by Charles Costanza

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Vince Visaya June 9, 2017 - 9:44pm

Charles....Thank you so much for your kindness and caring in doing such a difficult task.....even though its been 47 years for me I still have a hard time reliving the stories from my past.  God bless and thank you Vince 

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