The Garden City Telegram

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A grand ol' man

Published 11/4/2009 in Local News

By RACHAEL GRAY

rgray@gctelegram.com

Stewart Boone is a husband, father, grandfather, brother, singer, trumpeter and veteran.

In Saturday's Veterans Day Parade, Boone will be the parade grand marshal.

Boone, 85, fought in World War II in the Army's 99th Infantry Field Artillery in parts of France and Belgium and during the U.S. Army's famous Battle of the Bulge in December 1944. The surprise German attack was the last desperate attempt of Adolf Hitler to win the war.

About 500,000 German soldiers launched the attack, which came as a complete surprise to American troops. More than 600,000 Americans fought in the battle, considered one of the most famous and decisive battles on the Western Front during World War II.

In Bullingen, Belgium, Boone became one of the "Lucky 11" who escaped from Bullingen during the battle.

"Our position was totally captured by the Germans in this offensive," he said. "Four men were killed, and the rest were captured."

Boone said about 70 people were in his battery during the battle.

He earned the Bronze Star for meritorious service. The star is one among many of his Army-related honors.

Since that fateful day, Boone has been back to the battlefield three times.

"It's a sentimental journey," he said.

Boone has taken 18 members of his family to see the area of Belgium because he said his grandchildren wanted to see "where Grandpa won the war."

Boone's two sons and daughter, along with Boone's grandchildren won't get to watch Boone be the grand marshal of Garden City's Veterans Day parade because they don't live in the area, but Boone said they'll be able to visit for Thanksgiving.

Mary Nelson, who is involved in planning the Veterans Day Parade, said many notable veterans live in the Garden City area and Boone is a great choice for parade grand marshal.

"I'm impressed with what he's always done for the veterans. He is one to be honored and highly honored," Nelson said.

Boone has been active in veterans organizations and has worked on memorials to veterans. He often plays trumpet at events or funerals.

But Boone said it's not about him "tooting his own horn."

"Veteran support is important for the families. It's important to remember and honor those who have given the ultimate sacrifice — their lives — to serve their country, and to recognize everyone who fought," he said.

The Veterans Day Parade will begin at 10 a.m. Saturday morning on Main Street. Assembly for entries begins at 8 a.m.

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