Campisano Wires Wife Of Safety

Frank J. Camplsano, 23, of 20 Monroe Street, Norwood, who escaped In the blast aboard the carrier Bennington yesterday that claimed 91 lives.

A wave of relief swept through the Campisano and Mondor families last night when word arrived that Seaman First Class Frank J. Campisano, 23, of Norwood, escaped injury in the tragic explosion aboard the U.S. Navy aircraft carrier Bennington.

At 6 p.m., a telegram reached his wife, the former Helen Mondor of 20 Monroe Street, containing just nine words—but they were the only ones that mattered:

“I am fine. Do not worry. Letter to follow.”

The message ended hours of anxious waiting following national reports of the deadly blast.

A Young Family’s Relief

Mrs. Campisano shared the news with deep gratitude, noting that her husband has served aboard the Bennington for two years and is scheduled for discharge in November.

The couple has a one‑year‑old son, Edward J., who—like the rest of the family—was blissfully unaware of the danger his father had faced.

Frank is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Campisano of 42 Sturtevant Avenue, a well‑known Norwood family.

Learn more about Norwood’s naval history.

A Norwood Native in Service

Before joining the Navy, Campisano:

Graduated from Norwood High School in 1949
Worked for a year at the Plymouth Rubber Company in Canton
Enlisted in the Navy, where he has served with distinction

His assignment aboard the Bennington placed him among the ship’s regular crew during what should have been routine operations.

Explore Norwood High School alumni in service.

A Community That Watches Over Its Own

As news of the Bennington explosion spread, Norwood residents—many with loved ones in the service—waited anxiously for updates. The Campisano family’s good news will be welcomed across town, where neighbors have long followed Frank’s naval career with pride.

Norwood Free Press

Text and images may have been created, edited, colorized, or digitally restored using AI tools such as Microsoft Copilot or Google Gemini. All content is reviewed for accuracy and historical integrity before publication by the Norwood Historical Society