RHINEBECK – Dutchess County officials honored the life and military service of U.S. Army Cpl. Howard A. Traudt during this month’s “Honor-A-Veteran” ceremony at American Legion Post 429.
Traudt, a longtime Rhinebeck resident and community fixture, was recognized by County Executive Sue Serino and the Dutchess County Office of Veterans Affairs for his military service and decades of contributions to veterans, his community and his family.
“Howard Traudt lived a remarkable life of service, hard work and devotion to his loved ones and community,” Serino said. “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.”
Traudt was born in Rhinebeck on Nov. 1, 1933, and 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.
After completing his military service in 1955, Traudt met Madelon “Lonnie” Napoli on a blind date in 1956. They married Jan. 8, 1956, and remained together for the rest of their lives.
Traudt was deeply influenced by the loss of his brother, Roland, who was killed in action during World War II. He dedicated much of his life to honoring veterans and preserving their memory through organizations and community programs, including the Veterans of Foreign Wars, American Legion Montgomery Post 429, a local World War II veterans’ dinner, a school district scholarship and the Roland Traudt Little League Trophy.
He also coached Little League for two decades and spent 39 years working for the U.S. Postal Service. Traudt operated a painting and wallpapering business and Howie’s Lawn Service, continuing to mow lawns into his 80s.
Family and friends remembered Traudt as quiet, caring, patriotic and exceptionally hardworking.
He died Feb. 24, 2024. He is survived by four sons, 15 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.
Dutchess County holds “Honor-A-Veteran” ceremonies monthly from April through November to recognize deceased veterans who served during wartime or peacetime.
Residents can nominate veterans and submit required military documentation through the Dutchess County Office of Veterans Affairs. The next ceremony is scheduled for Sept. 17.
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