Tannersville WWII hero to be posthumously honored by Greene County

CATSKILL―The Greene County Veterans Service agency proudly announced Monday that Sgt. Boyd F. Allen, a veteran of the United States Army, has been selected as the recipient of the 2026 Greene County Memorial Veteran Award.

Allen was born on January 25, 1914, in Tannersville. He was a lifelong resident of Tannersville, right up until his passing on January 6, 2013, just before his 99th birthday.

Allen enlisted in the Army on April 8, 1943, and served with the 23rd Armored Engineers Battalion, 3rd Armored Division, during WWII.

During his service, Allen participated in the Battle of the Bulge where his duties included the hazardous work of clearing landmines and supporting frontline mobility and defensive operations under active combat operations.

Allen received the WWII Victory Medal, European African Middle Eastern Service Medal, American Service Medal, and Good Conduct Medal. He was also awarded two Purple Hearts for wounds sustained in combat.

Following his military service, Allen demonstrated an enduring commitment to his community. He was elected mayor of Tannersville and later operated a surveying company that served a wide area throughout Greene County.

He also served as Greene County superintendent of highways for 16 years, during a significant period of highway expansion in the United States. Throughout his career, Allen also provided guidance and opportunities to many young men in Greene County as they began their own careers.

The ceremony will be held on Saturday, May 16 at 10 a.m. at the Historic Catskill Point. All are invited to attend.