“I was determined to paint of a humanity, be it civilian or military, struggling to survive the cruel events.” (Life in the Armed Forces at Twenty One, page 3)

Peter Sanfilippo

Detail from a painting titled "Fallen Friend" War: World War, 1939-1945 Branch: Army Unit: Battery C, 633rd Field Artillery Service Location: England; North Africa; Sicily; Italy Rank: Private First Class Place of Birth: NY

Peter Sanfilippo served with the 633rd Field Artillery. He decided that art would be a comfort to him, and once in London, he purchased painting supplies. Initially stationed in North Africa, he began sketching the locals. The war then took his unit to Sicily and the Italian mainland. Though surrounded by the terrible destruction of war, Sanfilippo mainly chose to document the people, both civilian and military, wherever he was. Following the end of hostilities, Sanfilippo’s unit remained in Italy as MPs, and he worked as an interpreter, which permitted him more free time for his watercolors. Sanfilippo is quick to credit his fellow soldiers, who helped him carry his supplies throughout their travels together.