Bucks County remembers WWII "home front hero"

Monday, May 18, 2026 4:48PM ET
NEWTOWN, Pa. (WPVI) -- A Bucks County man, described as a 'home front hero' during World War II, is finally getting the recognition he deserves more than 80 years later.

Newtown's John Janney spent nearly every night writing hundreds of letters to Newtown servicemen stationed around the world.

From the Rhine in Germany, to military hospitals in the Pacific, Janney quickly became a 'lifeline to home' for soldiers during uncertain times.

John passed away shortly after the war, and was never given formal recognition for his contributions.

In recent years, the Newtown Historic Association and others inspired by his dedication have been collecting, transcribing and reading out loud John's letters, bringing his story back to life.



On Monday, veterans and community members gathered for a special graveside ceremony to recognize his extraordinary support for hometown soldiers.
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