Honoring a True Patriot: Andrew Lioi’s Salute to Service

A World War II hero, Community leader, and Proud Gilchrist Patient

A Life of Courage and Commitment

Andrew Anthony Lioi has led a remarkable life—one defined by bravery, resilience, and service. A decorated World War II veteran, beloved husband and uncle, accomplished attorney, and proud Italian-American, Andrew’s story continues to inspire all who knew him.

Born on July 8, 1925, in Saint Andrea, Calabria, Italy, Andrew immigrated to the United States with his family at age five, settling in Baltimore’s Little Italy. He grew up surrounded by faith, family, and the entrepreneurial spirit of his parents, who ran a confectionery store that became a neighborhood gathering place. It was from this tight-knit community that Andrew’s values of loyalty and service were born.

At just 18, Andrew was drafted into the U.S. Army and assigned to the 6th Armored Infantry Battalion of the 1st Armored Division—“Old Ironside.” He spent over two years fighting in Italy, where he was injured during combat but refused to abandon his post. After multiple surgeries, he returned to the front lines, determined to honor the sacrifice of his best friend, Sergeant Jerome “Rags” Ragolio, who had been killed in action.

For his heroism, Andrew was awarded the Bronze Star, the Purple Heart, and several additional military honors. He returned home on December 20, 1945.

A Quiet Life of Purpose

After the war, Andrew pursued a law degree and earned both a Juris Doctor and a Master of Laws from the University of Baltimore. He worked for the City of Baltimore before joining State Farm Insurance, where he served as claim counsel for the Mid-Atlantic Region until his retirement in 1988.

He married the love of his life, Geraldine Bonanno, in 1947. Though they never had children of their own, Andrew would say with a grin, “No children—but I had a lot of fun trying.” The couple shared 64 years of marriage before Geraldine’s passing in 2011.

Andrew remained deeply engaged in civic life. He led the Italian-American Civic and Holy Name Society, served on boards and scholarship committees, and played racquetball and pickleball regularly—well into his late 90s.

Capturing His Story in Print

At the age of 98, Andrew fulfilled another accomplishment—writing a book. Titled All Is Not Hell: How to Take a Crap in a Foxhole, his memoir recounts his personal memories of serving in the U.S. Army as an 18-year-old fighting in Italy during World War II. With humor, candor, and heart, the book offers readers a first-person window into the courage and camaraderie forged on the front lines.

Finding Comfort and Care with Gilchrist

On May 21, 2025, Andrew began receiving hospice care from Gilchrist in his senior living community. Though his health was beginning to decline, he remained sharp, engaged, and full of stories—always eager to share his memories with those around him.

“He was proud of his service and proud of his life,” shared one Gilchrist team member. “Being part of his care meant being part of something bigger—his legacy.”

A Salute Surrounded by Family

Just two weeks after coming on service, Andrew was honored in a heartfelt Salute to Service ceremony on June 5, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Gilchrist’s Salute to Service program, led by the Veterans Task Force, recognizes patients who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces with personalized tributes. Whether at the bedside or as part of a larger gathering, each ceremony is a moving expression of gratitude.

Andrew’s tribute included a reading of his military biography, the presentation of a framed certificate and military service lapel pin, and a hand-knit American flag blanket—all to thank him for his extraordinary courage and dedication.

The ceremony was a profound moment not just for Andrew but for his entire family. It was a chance to celebrate his life and service while he was still here to receive it. It was a fitting tribute to a man who has given so much—and a reminder that his sacrifices, and his story, will never be forgotten.

To learn more about Gilchrist’s Salute to Service program and how we honor veterans with compassion and dignity, visit gilchristcares.org/veterans  

*Andrew’s memoir, All Is Not Hell: How to Take a Crap in a Foxhole, is available for purchase on Amazon. You can find the book here: https://a.co/d/i4ed6XE