POUGHKEEPSIE, NY … Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino and the County’s Office of Veterans Affairs today recognized the service and lasting impact of U.S. Army Corporal (Cpl.) Howard A. Traudt, a cornerstone of the Rhinebeck community, at this month’s “Honor-A-Veteran” ceremony, held at American Legion Post 429 in Rhinebeck.
Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino said, “Howard Traudt lived a remarkable life of service, hard work and devotion to his loved ones and community. He proudly served his country in the Army, honored the memory of his fellow veterans when he returned home and gave so much to Dutchess County and his beloved hometown of Rhinebeck. Above all, he was devoted to his family, who continue to honor him today. Howard leaves behind a lasting legacy, and Dutchess County is privileged to share his story and those of his fellow local heroes through our ‘Honor-A-Veteran’ program to inspire generations to come.”
Born in Rhinebeck on Nov. 1, 1933, Howard A. Traudt was drafted into the U.S. Army on July 9, 1953. He served during the early Cold War with the 7th Field Artillery Battalion of the 1st Infantry Division in Schweinfurt, Germany, participating in readiness drills near the East German border. Upon completion of his military service in 1955, Cpl. Traudt met Madelon “Lonnie” Napoli on a blind date in 1956; they married on Jan. 8, 1956, beginning a lifelong partnership. Deeply shaped by the loss of his brother Roland, who was killed in action during World War II, Cpl. Traudt devoted much of his life to honoring veterans through the VFW, American Legion Montgomery Post 429, a local WWII veterans’ dinner, a school-district scholarship and the Roland Traudt Little League Trophy. A fixture in Rhinebeck, Cpl. Traudt coached Little League for two decades while building a 39-year career with the U.S. Post Office and running a painting and wallpapering business, as well as Howie’s Lawn Service, continuing to mow lawns at the age of 85. Remembered as quiet, caring, patriotic and exceptionally hardworking, Cpl. Traudt passed away on Feb. 24, 2024, leaving a legacy of devotion to family, seen in his four sons, 15 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.
Dutchess County invites nominations for its monthly “Honor-A-Veteran” ceremonies, held April through November, to pay tribute to deceased U.S. Armed Forces veterans who served in wartime or peacetime. Community members can submit nominations and required military documentation for consideration through the County’s Office of Veterans Affairs, with the next ceremony scheduled for Sept. 17. Additional information and downloadable applications are available at dutchessny.gov/honoraveteran.
