Selzer, William H.

Description

William Henry Selzer was born on October 19, 1893, in Rye, New York, the son of Frederick J. Selzer and Mary Helmrich. A lifelong resident of Rye, he grew up in the community and began his career in public service at an early age, working as a clerk in the village offices.

By 1917, he was employed as an assistant village clerk, reflecting his early involvement in municipal administration at a time when Rye was transitioning from a small village into a growing suburban community.

World War I Service

Selzer entered military service on May 26, 1918, when he was inducted in Rye, New York, into the United States Army. He was assigned to Company D of the 2nd Anti-Aircraft Machine Gun Battalion, a unit responsible for defending against enemy aircraft and supporting ground operations.

Anti-aircraft machine gun battalions were part of the Army’s evolving response to aerial warfare, providing mobile firepower to protect troops, supply routes, and strategic positions from enemy aircraft.

Selzer served overseas in France from June 30, 1918, to February 21, 1919, placing him in the theater during the final offensives of the war and the early occupation period following the Armistice. He served in the rank of Private and sustained no wounds or injuries in action.

He was honorably discharged on March 7, 1919.

Life After Service

Following his military service, Selzer returned to Rye and resumed his career in public service. Over the course of more than four decades, he became one of the most prominent municipal officials in the city’s history, serving in multiple roles including village and city clerk, comptroller, acting assessor, and acting city manager.

His career spanned a period of significant growth and modernization in Rye, and he was widely recognized for his dedication and leadership. In addition to his official duties, he was deeply involved in civic and community organizations, including the Rye Historical Society, the Rye Lions Club, the American Red Cross, the Kiwanis Club, and the Rye Fire Department police patrol. He was also a member of the American Legion and an honorary vestryman of Christ’s Church.

William H. Selzer died on August 30, 1971, at United Hospital at the age of 77.

At the time of his death, he was survived by his wife, Marion Selzer; his son, William H. Selzer Jr. of Phoenix, Arizona; his daughter, Carol O’Brien of San Diego, California; his sister, Mary Frank of Rye; and four grandchildren.