Vincent F. Nucci

(Dec. 16, 1943) -- Seaman Vincent Nucci was reported missing in action by the Navy which said his ship, a destroyer, was involved in a crash with a tanker in the Atlantic almost two months ago.

Nucci was believed to have been on the crew of the U.S.S. Murphy DD 603, when the collision occurred on the night of Oct. 21.

Both ships were operating without lights.

The front half of the ship sank in 10 minutes with a crew of 35.

The stern remained afloat and was towed to New York Harbor in 24 hours.

According to Deepexplorers:

''... following the end of the Sicily invasion next escorting United Kingdom bound convoys.

Standing out of New York Harbor 21 October, the destroyer was struck on the port side between the bridge and forward stack by tanker Bulkoil, The forward half of the ship sheared off and slowly sank, taking 38 officers and men with It.

The after section was kept afloat and was towed into New York Navy Yard where, following a 7-month repair job and replacement of the entire bow, the veteran warship rejoined the fleet in time for the Normandy invasion.''

Nucci, 23, was graduated from Belleville High School in 1940. He entered the Navy one year later.

He participated in the invasion of Sicily.