Recognizing United States Navy Radioman Petty Officer 3rd Class Natale ``nate'' John Scarpelli

Floor Speech

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Mrs. McCLAIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with deep respect and admiration to recognize the remarkable service of Radioman Petty Officer 3rd Class Natale ``Nate'' Scarpelli, a proud veteran of the United States Navy and our distinguished Veteran of the Month for October 2025 from Michigan's 9th Congressional District. His courage, dedication, and sacrifice during World War II reflect the very best of the American spirit.

Radioman Scarpelli answered his country's call to service in 1942. He enlisted in the United States Navy and was assigned as a Radioman Petty Officer 3rd Class aboard the USS Moreno (AT-87). He joined his ship in North Africa, becoming the youngest member of a seasoned crew.

The USS Moreno played a critical role in the war effort, carrying out dangerous missions that included firefighting, towing disabled warships, deploying depth charges, underwater welding, and escort operations. Radioman Scarpelli's skill as a radioman, communicating through Morse code and signal lamp, kept the crew connected during critical engagements. He also served as the ship's marksman, helping set sights on its 5-inch cannon, 40mm guns, and long-range weapons.

Radioman Scarpelli's service brought him to the frontlines of some of the war's most pivotal campaigns. The USS Moreno supported the Allied invasion of Sicily, clearing the coastline for advancing Army units. Later, it provided support during the Invasion of Southern France. During combat, Radioman Scarpelli was wounded by land artillery and treated at a field hospital before rejoining his ship, where he continued his duties, including cutting mine cables and neutralizing deadly sea mines.

In one remarkable mission, the USS Moreno captured a German one-man submarine armed with a torpedo. The vessel was brought aboard for inspection, drawing the attention of senior military leadership eager to study its design.

Radioman Scarpelli also served alongside his three brothers: Frank, who fought in the Pacific with the Army; John, who took part in the invasion of Northern France; and Augie, who manned guns on a Navy merchant ship in the Pacific. Their shared service reflects the extraordinary sense of duty and sacrifice that defined their generation.

After the war, which he served through 1945, Radioman Scarpelli returned home to Michigan. He completed a tool and die apprenticeship, earned a Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering, and began a distinguished career at Ford Motor Company in Manufacturing Engineering. There, he developed an innovative single-piece rear differential system that was later acquired by MIT. He married in 1953, retired at age 55, and spent the decades that followed traveling the world, remaining dedicated to his family, faith, and community.

Mr. Speaker, Nate Scarpelli's life is a testament to service and resilience. Whether on the deck of the USS Moreno or in the engineering halls of Ford Motor Company, his contributions strengthened both our Nation's security and its industry. It is my distinct honor to recognize him as our Veteran of the Month for October 2025.

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