LAS VEGAS (KLAS) – A 101-year-old World War II veteran was honored Friday by the city of Las Vegas as he prepares to return to Normandy, France for the anniversary of D-Day.
Onofrio ‘No-No’ Zicari, who many call a national treasure, is the last known D-Day veteran in Las Vegas
“It’s just amazing,” Zicari said. “I didn’t know anyone knew me.”
He spoke to 8 News Now about the storming of Omaha Beach in Normandy, France on June 6, 1944.
“It was a war, period,” Zicari said. “I don’t like to talk about it, but I’m here.”
“No-No” was one of many honored at the Police Memorial Park near Cheyenne Avenue and the 215, with 4,080 American flags planted for all the brave men and women who lost their lives fighting for our country.
“I see all these flags here,” Vincent Palmeri Junior told 8 News Now. “It gives me chills down my spine.”
Palmeri is a Vietnam veteran and two-time Purple Heart recipient. He called events like this crucial to remembering the fallen and shining a light on the problems others face after combat.
“One day you’re in Vietnam fighting, and the next day you’re back home trying to become a citizen,” Palmeri explained, recalling his own experience. “And your head is still very confused.”
Las Vegas Mayor Carolyn Goodman and Las Vegas City Councilman Francis Allen-Palenske reiterated the importance of Memorial Day during Friday’s ceremony.
“Memorial Day is a solemn time,” said Council Member Allen-Palenske. “We all stand in solidarity and support the men and women who have lost their lives serving us.”
This comes as efforts continue to thank “No No” and everyone else here in Las Vegas who made the ultimate sacrifice.
“When I was employed, I didn’t think I was going to get out of there,” Zicari said. “But I did and here I am.”
Zicari will join seven other D-Day veterans on a trip back to Normandy, France, for the 80th anniversary of D-Day.
This marks Zicari’s second trip back to Omaha Beach since 1944. He received a Purple Heart in Las Vegas in 2021 for being wounded in action on that historic day.
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