Carlo Matteucci, a Lodge brother since 1979, has been awarded the "Bene Emeritus Award", which is the highest honor that can be bestowed upon an OSIA member.
The prestigious award was given on June 3, during a special ceremony at the New York State OSIA 105th Annual Convention at Villa Roma, in Callicoon, New York. According to outgoing New York State OSIA President Salvatore A. Lanzilotta, the Bene Emeritus Award "is awarded to a brother or sister member who has performed outstanding deeds to enhance the image of the Italian American community, both within and outside the Order Sons of Italy in America."
Brother Carlo joined the Order in December of 1979, and has remained a dedicated and devoted member ever since. He served in many positions with Sgt. John Basilone Lodge #2442 (formerly known as John A. Prudenti Lodge), including president from 1985 to 1987. He then ascended through the ranks at the state level, being elected by acclamation as New York State President in 2005. During his three decades of service to the Order, Brother Carlo has served as Commissioner of the Garibaldi-Meucci Museum, Clerk of the State Arbitration Commission, State Membership Chairman, Chairman of the New York Grand Lodge Foundation, and Chairman of the New York State Commission For Social Justice to name just a few.
Still extremely active with our Lodge, Brother Carlo is currently serving on the New York State Grand Lodge Foundation Board of Advisors, and is a National Foundation Trustee. At the award ceremony he was described as "a man of honor and integrity who serves with pride and distinction."
