08/23/2026
Last week our community came out in full force to honor the life and enduring legacy of U.S. Army Corporal Howard "Howie" Traudt. Howie was a man who truly personified bravery, devotion to family, and deep-rooted dedication to community.
It was a deeply moving day at the Rhinebeck American Legion (Montgomery Post 429). Seeing the room filled with so many familiar faces, local elected officials, and community leaders who came out to pay homage to a true hometown hero spoke volumes about the impact Howie had on all of us.
Family was everything to Howie, and his incredible legacy was on full display. We were privileged to spend the morning with his four sons, their families, and even his great-grandchildren, all gathered to celebrate a lifetime of service. Howie’s work ethic was legendary—from his many years serving our community through the U.S. Postal Service to running his landscaping business well into his 80s, he simply never stopped giving back or taking care of the town he loved.
As a small token of our county's profound gratitude, we presented the Traudt family with a shadow box containing a flag flown over the Dutchess County Office building, alongside a stunning, handcrafted quilt lovingly made for the family.
Thank you to the Rhinebeck American Legion for graciously and beautifully hosting this Honor-A-Veteran ceremony. To the Traudt family: thank you for sharing Howie with us. His hard work, warmth, and sacrifice will never be forgotten in Dutchess County.
