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]
| Born: | November 6, 1921 Fulton, New York, US |
|---|---|
| Died: | September 5, 1990 (aged 68) Las Vegas, Nevada, US |
| Career information | |
| Position(s) | HB |
| Height | 5 ft 10 in (178 cm) |
| Weight | 180 lb (82 kg) |
| College | Saint Francis University |
| Career history | |
| As player | |
| 1942 and 1945 | Pittsburgh Steelers |
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
edit- ^ 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.