John F. Naioti (1921–1990) was a professional football player in the National Football League. He graduated from Saint Francis University, Loretto, Pennsylvania in 1942.[1]
He played in the National Football League for the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1942. He then went into the Army Air Corp during World War II. He was a first lieutenant navigator and a member of the 603rd Squadron.[2] On August 16, 1944, he flew on a mission from Nuthampstead, England to Delitzsch, Germany.[3] He completed his 32 combat missions on August 26, 1944, after a flight over Gelsenkirchen, Germany.[4][5]
After completion of his military service, he returned to the Pittsburgh Steelers and played in 1945. In 1945 he also kicked four point after touchdowns.[6]
According to his widow, he was offered a contract by the Pittsburgh Steelers for 1946 but decided to retire due to pain from his war injuries.
References
- ^ 2005 Saint Francis University Alumni Directory page 307.
- ^ "398th Bomb Group Web Site".
- ^ "Jordan's Crew - 603rd Squadron - 16 August 1944".
- ^ "Lt. Edward C. Jordan - the War Years Pilot, 603rd Squadron - Excerpts from 1944 Letters Home".
- ^ "603rd Squadron History - August 1944".
- ^ "John Naioti Stats". Pro-Football-Reference.com.
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