HI POPE The Fifth Army rolled into Rome and we were greeted by thousands of cheering Italians. Pope Pious XII, set aside one Sunday as Armed Forces Day. I was prevailed upon by my Catholic buddy to accompany him on this momentous occasion. The beauty of the Vatican is beyond belief, the fantastic sculptures and murals are an indication of the true genius of Michaelangelo. You are overcome with religious awe as you view the pomp and splendor of the Vatican. The Pope finally arrived surrounded by a retinue of followers. I followed my friend into a long line of soldiers who were waiting to greet the Pope. The custom was to genuflect before His Holiness and kiss the papal ring. When I reached the Pope, I extended my hand and said, "I am Jewish, sir, will you shake my hand?" He smiled, shook my hand and told me that he had hidden the Grand Rabbi of Rome in the Vatican during the German occupation. Another great moment during the army career of Staff Sergeant William Yenofsky. return to top