Originally posted by Don Corpuzzi
I don't know if they ever explicitly said whether or not Johnny Boy Soprano was boss of the family or not, but I think it's safe to say that he got as high as capo and that's it. I seem to recall Tony talking to someone (probably Melfi) and saying that his father never rose to the heights that he (Tony) did, but back in his day the mafia had it better.

As for Hesh, I don't know if they explained that one either, but I doubt that they would let a Jewish man ever officially be a consigliere, let alone a made man, in their crime family. I will look at my book later on tonight and if I find out anything otherwise, I'll post it.

Thanks Don Corpuzzi. I had forgotten about Tony talking to Melfi about his father never reaching the same heights. I do recall Tony saying to Melfi that 'my dad was tough, he had his own crew" so that confirms him as a Capo, as you said. In which case I think Hesh's main activities were his shylocking etc. Though I think that as a good earner and friend he would probably be a close adviser to Johnny. Tony talks repeatedly about how Johnny often kept Hesh around. Always needed someone to look out for Junior I expect.