This year we lost two members of our Post, Keneth R McDonald and Romie Bassetto.
Romie Bassetto, 1968-1969. US Army, 9th Infantry Division, Vietnam, Spec 4 Assigned to Battalion Staff, Commander's Aid in the Mekong Delta. 2016 San Mateo County Veteran of the Year
American Legion offices held:
1981. Joined American Legion
2007-2013. Commander American Legion Post 105
2019-2021. Commander American Legion Post 105
2000-2007. 1st Vice Commander, 2nd Vice Commander, 3rd Vice Commander
Mr. Bassetto eventually served three years each as Redwood City Post 105's 1st Vice Commander, 2nd Vice Commander and 3rd Vice Commander. He culminated his ‘career’ at Post 105 with multiple terms as Post Commander from 2007-2012 and 2019-2021 until he relinquished his duties to his successor, current Commander George Smith.
As a longtime Redwood City resident, he was involved with a Redwood City Veterans Housing project. Following years of dedicated service to military families, Romie was honored by California State Senator Jerry Hill on October 27, 2016, as Veteran of the Year for California's 13th Senate District. In 2015, Romie, and fellow Post 105 Officer & Vietnam veteran (Col.) Leo McArdle, co-chaired the Avenue of Flags subcommittee which hosted the traveling replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, "The Wall That Heals" at Golden Gate National Cemetery in San Bruno. In 2016, Romie organized Redwood City's Veterans Day festivities as well as a ceremony to observe the 75th anniversary of Pearl Harbor Day.
Through his years of dedicated efforts, Romie elevated the profile of Post 105 in the local community as a beacon for veterans and volunteers who want to assist veterans.
Reflecting about his life’s path, Romie sang praises of his high school alma mater. From 1961 through graduation in June 1965, Romie attended the all-boys Catholic high school, Junipero Serra (Serra) in San Mateo. "The best school in San Mateo County, then and now," he noted with enthusiasm. "I donate as much of my time as I can there. Hey, if you know something will really improve a kid's life, give them a good start in the world— and I'm telling you, that's what Serra is all about—if you can be involved, be involved!"
Romie certainly fulfilled the last quote above; he got involved. He went beyond the call of duty to serve his country. He continued to serve his community and our Post to his last breath.
Submitted by Peggy Toye & Michael Toschak. This tribute was based on an article by author Jean Bartlett, copyright 2022. Bartlett’s biography was sponsored by Helen Marlene Broce. It can be found online at www.bartlettbiographies.com and in a binder at Pacifica American Legion Post 238, 555 Buel Avenue, Pacifica, CA.