Underboss
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 1,466 No. Virginia
In the book, Michael was wounded during an amphibious landing. Vito arranged for his discharge, so it's at least possible that he also arranged Michael's being a hero. Maybe there's something more in the book.
I think Michael's rebellion by joining the Marines would be good gossip material, so it wouldn't be unusual for cops to know about him.
"All of these men were good listeners; patient men."