Daniel Steven Antinozzi

Daniel Steven Antinozzi passed on 8-5-2018 ending a life of nearly 95 years. Dan’s mind remained strong and clear until his last days, expressing the optimism of an enduring lifelong faith in and duty toward the economy and politics of his nation, the love of family and the Catholic Faith. Knowing Dan was to know his big smile was always nearby. His smile was the signature of an optimistic outlook that shaped his actions, even though the many good and fortunate times he enjoyed were punctuated with times of difficulty and disappointment. Dan was born in Hazelton, PA, into a community of newly immigrated, southern Italians, brought to work the Anthracite mines. The early years of his life saw his family lifted by the economic boom of the 1920’s, only to be brought down hard by the depression. Dan turned 18 just weeks after Pearl Harbor. The US Army quickly called, landing him in the middle of the deepest combat turmoil at Leyte Gulf and Okinawa. During the war, Dan’s leadership abilities became apparent, and he acquired the telecommunication skills that would be the signature of his adult work life. A brief departure from the Army after WWII was soon followed by a recall, to serve in the German occupation forces during the Korean War. Returning from Germany, Dan found himself with the opportunity to stay with the army, in the elite, rapidly expanding White House Communications Agency. He directly served the Presidents, Eisenhower, Kennedy and Johnson, assuring that solid and secure communications for the Commander–In-Chief were operating around the clock, around the world. Dan swiftly moved through the ranks, rising to Sargent-Major of the White House Communications agency. He played many roles at WHCA, but was especially proud of his work as a key logistics coordinator. The long years and long hours at the White House Communications Agency helped to form a long and wide array of personal bonds that would endure through his life, and remained active through his participation in the 1600 Communications Association, that formed at the time of his US Army retirement. Dan and his WHCA friendship bonds formed through the great pride they took in their work, and their commitment to each other, that made their successes possible. Full Army retirement finally came in 1968, but another long career at United States Postal Service Headquarters Communications lay ahead. Dan was always somebody who felt best when working hard. When full retirement finally came, he put his considerable energy into the young families of his children. Dan is survived by his wife Pearl, children Steven and Mary, five grandchildren and one great-grandchild. On Saturday October 13, 2018 at 11:00 a Catholic Requiem Mass will be held at St Ann Catholic Church, 5300 North 10th Street, Arlington, Virginia 22205. A reception and remembrance will be held at the Church Hall immediately following the Mass. Internment with Religious Rites and Military Honors will be held at Arlington National Cemetery at a date yet to be determined.