Required Reading for Italian-Americans...

Sicilian Culture: News & Views

Dominick Pilla, An American Hero, One Among Many
From Nicholas Addeo

In the mid 90's I interviewed Ben and Diane Pilla from Vineland NJ.  They allowed me to record the story on audio cassette about their son.  Dominick Pilla was just 21 yrs. of age  and the first American to be killed as he raced to evacuate a wounded Ranger. This was of course in that terrible battle in Somalia '93.

I wrote the short story titled 'Dominick Pilla, An American Hero, One Among Many'.

Thanks to Manny Alfano, a version appeared in the UNICO magazine. I thought that it would be a wonderful 'positive' story that could be filmed about a brave and committed young American of Italian descent. 

One that could counter the wave of negative imagery  usually presented in film and tv.  Dominick's parents agreed.

The story is quite powerful and poignant. Following a young headstrong Dominick, who set high standards for himself and those around him to a brave adult 21 yr. old whose dreams would be shattered by a bullet through the head in some far off land.

But I believed he left a wonderful 'legacy'  and I thought that his story should be told.

Unfortunately  none of the producers who are of Italian descent  agreed. I also contacted HBO and a fellow named Mesce (1st name might be Bill), who contacted me and told me that he liked the story but it lacked  'sex and the mob'.

Mr. Plepler (VP)  also contacted me stating that he liked the story but he didn't see any support by 'the Italian-American community'  for positive imagery projects and so on.

Currently there is a film being released by major producer Jerry Bruckheimer titled 'BlackHawk Down' that will probably include a Dominick Pilla character.

When the film was in production and they were seeking actors, and Dominick's character was being cast, I contacted the Pilla family and they were unaware that such a film was being produced or that their son's character would be included.

I continue to keep in touch with Dominick's parents. I call them every so often and update them on my progress with the story.  Ben Pilla has become extremely aware of the treatment  'Italian' descent characters in the entertainment media, and is very supportive of positive change. 

For further information on Dominick Pilla, and other projects, or if you are in a position to assist in bringing these projects to fruition,
please contact:

Nicolas Addeo
Speranza, PO 583 Asbury Park,  NJ 07712
Tel: # 732- 728- 0998
Email:   dantes@monmouth.com

© Copyright 1999-2002 (MCMXCIX) Cristaldi Communications Web Design, Hosting & Promotion - - February 19, 2002