I believe that the exchange between Vito and Michael was definately an important scene.

>>>DON CORLEONE then lifts
his hand, and slowly touches a particular medal on MICHAEL's
uniform.

DON CORLEONE :What was this for?

MICHAEL : For bravery.

DON CORLEONE : And this?

MICHAEL : For killing a man.

DON CORLEONE : What miracles you do for strangers.

MICHAEL : I fought for my country. It was my
choice.

DON CORLEONE : And now, what do you choose to do?

MICHAEL : I'm going to finish school.

DON CORLEONE : Good. When you are finished, come
and talk to me. I have hopes for you.<<


As for the Genco part of that scene, I think that FFC was trying to show how powerful and dependable The Don had become as Genco asked him to defeat death on his behalf.


Don Cardi