Auburn has proclaimed Sept. 25 Joe Guggemos Remembrance Day, honoring a lifelong city resident whose service in both world wars is the subject of a new book by local author Kathleen DeJoy-Genkos.
Mayor Jimmy Giannettino and City Council members welcomed DeJoy-Genkos to their Sept. 24 meeting for the proclamation. The date marked the birthday of Joseph A. “Joe” Guggemos, who was born Sept. 25, 1889, and died July 20, 1972.
DeJoy-Genkos’ latest book, “Joe Guggemos: Unsung Soldier, The Life and Service of a World War I & World War II Veteran,” brings attention to an Auburn veteran whose story may be unfamiliar to many residents.
Giannettino also recognized DeJoy-Genkos for documenting local history. She has written three books about Auburn people and institutions, including histories of the Auburn Fire Department and Gladys Johnson, a Finger Lakes daredevil.
In a statement shared by the city, the mayor said her research has brought “forgotten voices to light” and helped make Auburn’s history accessible to future generations. He said her books celebrate both well-known and less-recognized local figures.
The city posted the proclamation and the mayor’s remarks following the council meeting.
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