Veteran Of The Year

'Buss' Allen named Fulton Veteran of the Year

Erwin “Buss” Allen, an United States Army Veteran who fought in World War II, was named Fulton's 2008 Veteran of the Year during a recent ceremony at the Fulton VFW Post 569.

The honor came as a surprise to Allen, who said he was humbled by the designation, which was kept secret until the ceremony.   Adding to the surprise of the occasion was that more than a dozen family members were waiting in a side room, including his son, Mark Allen, who traveled from Pennsylvania, and his 90-year old sister, Florence.

“Oh, what a surprise,” said the 89-year old Allen, who has been a member of the VFW for more than 45 years and a member of its Color Guard for more than 30 years.  “Thank you,” he said to all who had gathered.

According to his son, Allen was on a ship heading to Japan as the United States dropped the atomic bomb that ended Work War II.  “He was on a transport ship when they dropped the bomb and the war ended,” said Mark Allen.  “He was rerouted back and served here and in New Jersey.”

Mark Allen, who grew up in Fulton, said  his father was a “terrific example” of a veteran and a father.  “He is always giving and he will go out of his way to help people,”  he said.  “He will do anything for anybody.  He even rescued a deer in the middle of winter off the river.  He got into a rowboat, went out, risked his life, and came back with the deer and brought it safely back to shore.”

Michael Dunn, President of the Fulton Veterans Council, added, “He has done a lot for veterans and the people of this community.  He has never asked for compensation and he has done it without a bad word and always a smile.  He's a good man.  What he has done for the veterans is really amazing.”

As a member of the Color Guard, Allen was always in front of the Memorial Day Salute parade and performed military burial services for veterans.  “The VFW has always been a part of his life,” said Mark Allen.  “He has always been there for meetings, funerals, wakes and all that stuff.”

“He has provided a lot of comfort for many families,”   added Dunn.

In addition to the award he received, Allen will have his name engraved on a plaque at the War Memorial and will serve as Grand Marshall for this year's Memorial Day Salute parade which will take place on May 24th.

2008 Memorial Day Banner Hanging

Pictured are: Mr. Allen and Mayor Ron Woodward

2007 Memorial Day Photos