The Birmingham age-herald., 1918-11-07
ITALIAN OFFICER
 HONORED GUEST
 OF LOCAL COLONY
Captain Zampagiione Tells of the Battle on the Pia' Q River Front Where He,
 Was Wounded.

T didn't understand what he said, but on account of his experiences, and from the expression on his face and the fire in his eye, if he were to tell me to go to hades I would try to do it." said Dr. H. A. Elkourie, toastmaster at the Italian banquet at the Hillman hotel last night, at the conclusion of four-mnute speech by Capt. Arturo s. zampaglione,
 in whose honor the banquet was given
 Although Captain Zampaglione spoke in the Italian tongue, those present who could not literally interpret his address knew well from the vehemence with which he spoke that he was an orator of no mean ability, and further, that it was inspired by the deepest and most sincere patriotism. He concluded his speech with sentence of English. which was: The spirit of the troops on the Italian border, as well as that of those on the French and other allied borders. is that of George Washington" at the conclusion of which he was enthusiasti- cally applauded
 Captain zampagione has been wound ed three times and has lost hand in battle. He was among the first who led counter attack against the Austrians on the Piave river front. after the Ital- ians had been forced back for several miles In that sector several months ago. He is member of the famous grenadiers, who have distinguished themselves so frequently in the italian theatre of the war.
 Captain Zampaglione is making tour of the United States trying to get in touch with Italian residents of this coun- try, and to effect better understand ing of the Italian cause in America. He was accompanied by Vice Consul N. C.. Pandolfo. who addressed the guests part ly in English and partly in his native tongue In the English part of his ad- dress he expressed confidence in the American people for the fair and court eous treatment of his fellow countrymen residing in this country.
 Dr. Ellxoure, in his introductory ad- dress touched very forcibly upon the part Italy has played in the war. and particularly upon the recent victories of the Italians over the Austrians. He spoke in the most complimentary terms of the achievements of all the allied nations, saying, In conclusion that the United States embraces the principles of all of them.
 Sergeant McGinnis of the. Canadian army was present and the meeting be- tween him and Captain Zampaglione was almost pathetic. As these two men, one having lost an arm and the other a leg, both fighting for humanity--grasp hands, tears of joy could be seen bub- bling to the surface, and in fact, every one present was thrilled with patriotic emotion as they met Sergeant McGinnis spoke very interestingly for a few min utes of his observations and experiences in the war. -
 Several prominent Birmingham citizens were present and made four minute speeches, in which they eulogized Italy for the part she has played in the war, and many of them expressed pleasure in having one of her brave sons--one right from the front--to visit the Magic City.
 At the conclusion of the festivities the following message was wired to General Diaz, the hero in the recent Italian vic tories over the Austrlans, by the Italian coIoney of Birmingham:f ' "We are proud of you and hail you as a redeemer and protector. We rejoice and congratulate you"
 The following message was sent to Cap tain Bevione, at Washington: Captain Zampaglione, Vice Consul N. c. Pandolfo. the Italian colony of Birmingham and many distinguished American friends join in congratulating General Diaz and his forces. and are earnestly praying for an early and completes victory. when the enemy absolutely will be conquered