Despite growing up amid the horrors of World War II as a boy in the Republic of San Marino, Olimpio Guidi considers himself lucky.

He grew up with great parents, great siblings, and great friends and neighbors. Although everyone he knew was poor, they all stuck together—a lesson he'd carry with him throughout his life in the U.S. Navy and over a career spanning almost forty years as a civil servant.

In recalling his life story, he shares an unlikely tale of survival that included immigrating with his family to his adopted home country of the United States of America.

He shares his appreciation for everyone who has assisted him on his journey, including U.S. Navy Cmdr. Toby Haynsworth, who was instrumental in helping him become a lifelong civil servant, culminating with an assignment to the U.S. Embassy in Rome, Italy, where he represented the U.S. Department of Defense.

Join the author as he celebrates his love of family, his passion for service, and his love for his adopted country.