My wife had another birthday, so off to Vegas we went. I couldn’t buy her anythin’ real expensive this time because I lost $1 on a penny slot machine, which drastically reduced what I had set aside for her birthday fund. She was less than understandin’ with my accountin’ explanation and proceeded straight to the “Forum Shops” at Caesars Palace. Obviously I need to stay away from them penny slots!
With my wife busy tryin’ to decide whether to buy a new Louis Vitton, Gucci, Prada or Coach handbag, I could only standby and guess what credit card was gettin’ the most abuse. As it turned out, the MasterCard got hammered, but as the ole’ sayin’ goes, “It took a beatin’ but she couldn’t drain all the water from the well!” The only explanation for this? My wife must have called and convinced MasterCard that I was actually a retired Capt. II and that my pockets were much deeper than previously reported. I’m just grateful that she didn’t tell them I was a retired A/C!
Anyway, while nervously waitin’ for her to come out of the store, I couldn’t help but notice the throngs of passers-by. I soon realized that there are two kinds of people in this world: Those with tattoos and cell phones, and those without. It was truly amazin’ to watch these people on their cell phones; either talkin’, textin’ or just carassin’ their devices like a security blanket.
Women far outnumbered the men in the carassin’ category and their tattoo’s were much more interestin’ too. The latest female craze seems to be written script on the legs, thighs, backs, arms and chest. But because the fonts were so small, to fit the particular space, it was extremely hard to read a leg or thigh as they quickly past by my vantage point. I didn’t have my readin’ glasses with me, and faced with the possibility of gettin’ arrested for perverted behavior, I could only attempt a weakened version of my speed readin’ skills, which only got me as far as the first two or three words. Obviously I’ll have to bring more money and my readin’ glasses with me on our next trip.
And what’s with these guys wearin’ their pants around their knees? Ain’t it about time for this fashion fad to die? And as I watched a gaggle of guys walk by my check point, with most of them pullin’ up their britches so they wouldn’t completely fall off, I noticed these geniuses were too busy holdin’ up their pants to use their cell phones. Maybe this goofy fashion trend has a positive side!
You know, the only guy I know that has to legitimately hold on to his pants so they don’t hit the floor is a certain retired Capt. II. Yea, that’s because he keeps gold bars stuffed in each of his pockets. Now that’s a fashion statement!
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Vito Maggipinto – Engineer, Handball Champion and WWII Vet
Vito Maggipinto grew up in New York and joined the Navy during World War II. His minesweeper was operating just off the beach during the Normandy landings on June 6, 1944, when it was struck by a mine and exploded, sinking in less than two minutes. Vito was one of the lucky crew members who survived and was rescued by a British patrol boat. He was awarded the Purple Heart along with other medals for his service to the country.
After the War, he became a member of the LAFD. According to Vito “It seemed an opportunity to serve people and do good things. People are always happy to see a fireman coming to help.”
Between the emergencies Vito zeroed in on an activity that was not only exciting, it helped him keep in top physical condition. Handball became a passion that earned him the distinction of becoming the department handball champion 13 years in a row. Racquet ball was also a favorite sport. “I started playing handball as a kid in New York.” Vito reminisces. “I also played some baseball and football while attending UCLA.” His athletic prowess led to his participation in the National Fireman’s Handball Championship in Chicago and a first place trophy – along with Firemen’s Olympic Gold medals. His trophies are now on display at the Hollywood Fire Museum.
When Vito had 30 years on retirement, he put on a dinner at his last assignment at Fire Station 1 for the crew and many of his old friends to celebrate his time on the job and his retirement.
Today Vito and his wife Dolores live in Glendale near the Oakmont Country Club. Vito continued playing handball and racquetball well into his 80’s. He would come to LAFD tournaments and play in the senior’s bracket. He put on demonstrations and taught the young players some of his tricks on the court. Golf is his game of choice now. He is a true champion in every sense of the word and a true gentleman on and off the court. He is one of the legends of the LAFD and a survivor of the Normandy landings 70 years ago.
We should never forget the sacrifices made by our men and women of our military in WWII. They are the “Greatest Generation.”
By Frank Borden, LAFD retired
