Nicholas M. Troianiello

U.S. Marine Corps
1944 - 1946
WW II | Iwo Jima
Purple Heart

Nicholas M. Troianiello was born on Staten Island, one of six children to Vincent and
Angelina Troianiello on April 4, 1926.

Graduating from Port Richmond High School in 1944, he was a member of the New York
State Guard prior to enlisting in the U.S. Marine Corps. One of the 30,000 Marines to land on
the Japanese island of Iwo Jima on February 19, 1945 he was awarded the Purple Heart for his
meritorious service.

Upon the completion of his military service, he returned to his hometown and became a member of
the NYC Fire Department, retiring after 40 years with the esteemed title of Lieutenant.
Nicholas married Mary A. Cuddihy and together they raised seven children, they also had the
blessing of six grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. A lifelong parishioner of St. Michaels
Church, he loved spending time with his family and friends at the Jersey Shore, Atlantic City, and
family gatherings.

Nicholas was devoted to the US Marines and his community. He was an active member of the
USMC League, 3rd Marine Division Association, the Retired Firefighters Association, and the Devil
Dogs. In addition to his military accolades, Nick was named both Fireman of the Year and Marine
of the Year. He also received a Certificate of Appreciation for Outstanding Service with the Devil
Dogs.

In 2020, he was honored as the last surviving member of the Marine Corps League Sergeant Angel
Mendez Detachment 246 for his brave and noble service to his country by the 24th Senate District.
Nicholas passed at the age of 94 in 2021, he was laid to rest along with his wife Mary at Arlington
National Cemetery. On April 22, 2022 a street named “Nicholas Troianiello Way” honored him as a
man who served his country and community. Anyone who knew Nick could always count on him,
he was loyal, considerate, and personable. He always took time to listen to your story or tell a story,
a joke or sing a song. For anyone who did not know him personally you may remember him after
his retirement from the FDNY as the man who would daily walk 5 miles along South Avenue well
up until his late 80’s. During his routine he may have given a quick wave if you honked your horn
or called out to him as he remained steadfast looking straight ahead completing his daily regimen.
Nicholas will always be remembered for his loyalty and devotion to his family, friends, community
and country.

Sponsored by Cathleen Troianiello