Arminio, Frank

Frank Arminio was born August 23, 1946 in Newark, New Jersey. His father was a World War two veteran who had served as an MP in the Philippines and Okinawa, and his grandfather had served in the Italian army in the Great War, so Frank has a military tradition in his family. Frank remembers that he had an active and rebellious childhood, and that led him to join the army in 1965.  Basic training and Advanced Infantry Training took place in Fort Dix, followed by stints at Fort Eustis and Fort Polk, aka Tigerland.  After that he was on his way to Vietnam, arriving in 1966. Once there, he was assigned to the US Army Headquarters Company in Cam Ranh Bay; after a disagreement with an NCO he was transferred to Vung Ro Bay, a major transhipment point for military supplies, and Frank served there with the 119th Transportation Company, attached to the 4th Infantry Division. Frank unloaded supplies and was involved in the truck convoys that took the ammunition to its various destinations, often coming under enemy fire. He also pulled guard duty in the rotation and as such was definitely in a combat zone, showing that all soldiers were in harm’s way, even if not directly on the front lines. When his tour of duty was up, Frank returned stateside, having seen enough of the chaos and confusion and stupidity of war.  He recalls that the adjustment was difficult and that he went down the wrong road before others stepped up to help him, including the VA. Remembering his own tough times, Frank remains dedicated to the causes of remembrance and veterans’ advocacy, actively working to help his brothers-in-arms and taking part in local commemorations.  Frank Arminio was interviewed by Scott Masters in Mt. Freedom, N.J. in March 2026.