John Adriani

Giovanni "John" Adriani, born March 24, 1919, son of the late Mariano and Rachela Adriani, passed on Saturday, August 9th, 2014 at the age of 95.

He was preceded in death by his brothers, Giuseppe, Domenico, George and Joseph and wives Frances and Irene. He is survived by sisters Mary Merse, Rose Stephanson, Anne Gregory, and brothers Dominick and Paul Adriani. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews.

John retired from PEPCO after 40 years of service. His employment was interrupted when his country called him to serve in World War II. He served from 1941 through 1945 where he saw action in Central Europe, specifically Normandy, the Ardennes and in the Rhineland region with the 28th Infantry Division, dubbed the "Keystone Division". From Normandy, the 28th advanced across western France, finding itself in the thick of hedgerow fighting through towns such as Percy, Montbray, Montguoray, Gathemo and St. Sever de Calvados by the end of July 1944. The fury of assaults launched by the 28th Infantry Division led the German Army to bestow the Keystone soldiers with the title "Bloody Bucket" Division. His service earned him the Good Conduct Medal, an American Defense Service Medal and the European African Middle Eastern Service Ribbon.

John was an independent, noble man who loved his country, treasured his family and lived by a strong set of principles based upon his Catholic faith. Because of this, his family and friends treasure him immeasurably. He is a member of the "Greatest Generation". He epitomized the numerous outstanding attributes which prompted such a label.

Burial arrangements will commence at Huntt's Funeral Home in Waldorf, Maryland. Viewing Tuesday, August 19 from 6 p.m to 8 p.m. Prayers at 7 p.m. Mass of Christian burial will be held at Saint Mary's Catholic Church, Bryantown, Maryland on Wednesday, August 20 at 11 a.m. Interment will follow at Cheltenham Veteran's Cemetery, Brandywine, Maryland at 1 p.m.