2002 started a process of learning about how 9 brave immigrants made a decision to come to America. What started as a process for my own family, it slowly branched out to 9 original members of the Giardino Family that immigrated to Rome NY.The next 17 years would bring about stories and merriment that really surprised me and others. Our family learned that every risk brought about future success for generations to follow. We learned about the relative that appeared on the Ed Sullivan Show, the Bank Robbery, and how one family member would become the Commissioner of Baseball. All 3 examples of realities that no one knew for sure was a part of our family history.
Another part of this journey is the contributions our family made to our community and country. Public officals, police officers, medical practice, and service to our country are just a few examples. The Giardinos served World War II with valor. We truly embraced and loved our country.
Connections through history keep a family together. The purpose of this blog, and a future book is to ensure we never forget how we got here. The manifests from immigration led to the possibilities we all enjoy today. This is the legacy of "The Big 9."
