Ron Gilson’s patriotic tribute to his friend, Joe Mondello at the dory shop

A spectator packed room and observation deck at Geno’s Dory Shop, greeted Ron and Joan Gilson on this sunny, mild mid-winter afternoon for Ron’s patriotic tribute to his friend, Joe Mondello. It was to the sound of bag pipes, guitars, concertina, and mandolin, playing light, spirited music, Ron delivered his tribute to his longtime boyhood friend, Joe Mondello, on the occasion of Joe’s 93rd year.

Joe Mondello, a lifelong Gloucester cobbler, still working daily, is a proud U.S. Navy WW II veteran. Surrounded by his family and friends, he stood at attention and returned Gilson’s respectful salute while the audience sang Irving Berlin’s “God Bless America”.

Following this tribute, Mondello, “the Dog Hill legend”, and his guests shared a delicious cake, frosted with the patriotic colors of red, white and blue, as the crowd congratulated Mondello and “the band played on”!