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Seldon Eugene Jones: A True American Hero
Louise, Michele, Travis, family and friends of Seldon Eugene Jones.
When Seldon Jones was 17 years old, world events occurred that defined the rest of his life. These events were the attack on Pearl Harbor and the entry of the United States into World War II. By the time Seldon was 20, he had sworn a simple oath and made a solemn vow that he subscribed to for the next seven decades. What a testament to the character of a truly outstanding man! His oath was to protect and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, which he did as a soldier in combat in the United States Army. His vow was to enter into a state of Holy Matrimony with Grace Louise Burgess, the love of his life. The manner in which Seldon based his life on these two promises truly places him as an icon for what a citizen of the United States should be.
Seldon took his place among the ranks of "The Greatest Generation." Assigned to the 8th Armored Division, he was stationed at North Camp Polk, Louisiana. Louise joined him there, even though many advised war brides to stay away from the bustling Army towns because the time a couple could be together was so limited and unpredictable. But that didn't matter to the two of them. They were in love!
Seldon didn't shirk from danger when his unit deployed overseas. As the driver of his tank in F Troop of the 88th Reconaissance Squadron, this meant that when the 8th Armored Division engaged in combat, Seldon and his unit were out in front, locating suitable routes, but most importantly, finding the German enemy. Seldon's European Campaign Ribbon has three battle stars on it: One for the Ardennes; one for the Rhineland, and one for Central Europe. Those of you who know history are aware that the Ardennes was more commonly referred to as the Battle of the Bulge, and in terms of the number of soldiers involved, was the largest battle the United States engaged in during World War II.
At the end of hostilities, Seldon was part of the Army of Occupation in Europe. Returning home to his country, he again demonstrated his loyalty. He began his career at General Motors and once again showed his loyalty as he remained with his employer for 41 years. But most important to Seldon was raising his family: daughter, Michele; son, Seldon, Jr., and always being there for grandson Travis. Seldon also became a stalwart in the 8th Armored Division Association, and served as the President of the Association from 1986-1987.
Some people have a narrow definition of the word "hero." They say a hero is a person who commits a single act of bravery at one particular moment in time. That would be the easy way to become a hero. Seldon demonstrated the definition of the word "hero" every day of his life. Ladies and Gentlemen, as representatives of the United States Army and the Veterans of Foreign Wars render the full military honors that he so rightfully earned, let us pay our final respects to Seldon Eugene Jones, a true American hero.
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