American Legion Memorial Post 274
American Legion Memorial Post 274 — Broadway & Jefferson Street, Camden, NJ
1944 South Broadway, Camden, NJ 08104
After Memorial Day, 1948 there were some unusual events at Post 274. We are much more peaceable now!
Fight Among Vets Of 2 World Wars Aired in Court
Camden Courier-Post —
A dispute concerning the honoring of deceased war heroes at an American Legion meeting was responsible for the fight which occurred yesterday at the post home in South Camden, according to testimony in police court today.
The brawl resulted in the arrest of three men after policemen, who responded to a riot call, said they found tables and chairs upset and windows broken. It occurred at the George W. Booz Post 274, 1944 Broadway.
Arrested were Carlo Di Carlantonio Jr., 22, of 1810 Broadway, for assault and battery; Raffaele Di Ciano, 18, of 1903 South Fourth street, disorderly conduct, and Samuel Barbarosso, 51, of 856 Fairview street, as a material witness.
ABC to Investigate
Barbarosso, a World War I veteran, told Judge DiMona he was pushed through a window after being punched by Di Carlantonio. He said the attack was unwarranted. Sgt. Earl Wright testified Di Ciano was jailed after he interceded in behalf of Di Carlantonio.
The fight climaxed the day during which post members participated in memorial services at cemeteries and other shrines. After ceremonies, the post home was opened. Sergeant Wright ordered the bar closed upon learning Di Ciano was only 18. ABC agents are expected to investigate.
Di Carlantonio, a War II veteran, pleaded not guilty to assault and battery charges. He claimed Barbarosso began choking him.
“I had to defend myself,” Di Carlantonio testified.
The younger man said Barbarosso was angry at him for an argument they had last Thursday. Di Carlantonio said they were arguing about the scheduling of Memorial Day activities.
Says He Was Attacked
Barbarosso, who was represented by former Judge Frank Neutze, denied choking Di Carlantonio. He testified the World War II veteran punched him while he sat near the bar. Di Carlantonio returned and pushed him through a window, Barbarosso related.
Anthony Lario, attorney for Di Carlantonio, attempted to show that Barbarosso was drunk at the time. Barbarosso admitted drinking intermittently between noon and 6 p.m., the time of the fight. He was released.
Judge Di Mona sentenced Di Carlantonio to 30 days in county jail. He suspended sentence because of his good record. Di Ciano drew a similar sentence, but was asked to be available for questioning by ABC agents.
Postponement Set In Case Against Legion Officer
Camden Courier-Post —
Hearing of assault and battery charges against a South Camden American Legion post commander were postponed in police court today.
Andrew Di Carlantonio, commander of George W. Booz post 274, of 1944 Broadway, stands accused of beating Legionnaire Albert Tavolieri, 1806 Fillmore street.
Judge DiMona ordered a further hearing for Monday on request of Di Carlantonio’s counsel.
Tavolieri said the attack occurred Tuesday enroute to work at the New York shipyard.
Previous to the alleged beating, Di Carlantonio’s brother, Carlo Jr., 22, drew a 30-day suspended sentence in police court on assault and battery charges growing from a Memorial Day brawl at the Legion home.
Samuel Barbarosso, 51, of 856 Fairview street, claimed Carlo pushed him through a window. Tavolieri helped break up the brawl, police said.
Those Involved
Santo Barbarosso, Andrew Di Carlantonio, and Carlo Di Carlantonio.