Edward J. Tracy
Early Life
Edward J. Tracy was born on May 5, 1897, in Harrison, New York, the son of James P. Tracy and Nellie Beary Tracy. He grew up in Rye, where his family was well established, and his father served as a sergeant with the Rye Police Department.
Tracy spent much of his early life in Rye and was educated in local schools. He remained closely tied to the community for decades, residing in Rye for more than sixty years, including later life at Sound View Avenue.
World War I Service
Tracy entered military service on May 4, 1917, when he enlisted in the New York National Guard in New York City. He was assigned to Company M of the 7th Infantry Regiment, New York National Guard, which was later federalized and redesignated as part of the 107th Infantry Regiment within the 27th Infantry Division.
He was later transferred to Company A of the 102nd Supply Train, a logistical unit responsible for transporting supplies, ammunition, and essential materials to front-line troops of the American Expeditionary Forces.
Tracy served overseas in France from June 30, 1918, to March 11, 1919, participating in the major campaigns of the final year of the war. While assigned to the supply train, his duties would have placed him in direct support of combat operations, ensuring that infantry units remained equipped and operational during sustained offensives.
He held the rank of Wagoner beginning October 11, 1917, before returning to the rank of Private in February 1918. His service record notes no wounds or injuries in action.
He was honorably discharged on April 4, 1919.
Life After Service
Following his military service, Tracy returned to Rye, where he built a long career as a salesman with Royal Motors in White Plains. He remained with the company for many years, retiring in 1975.
He was a parishioner of the Church of the Resurrection in Rye and maintained strong ties to the local community throughout his life.
Edward J. Tracy died on July 2, 1980, at United Hospital in Port Chester, New York, at the age of 83.
He was survived by his wife, Frances Richardson Tracy; his three daughters, Patricia Accousti, Maureen O’Brien, and Ellen Tracy; his sister, Alice Steers; and six grandchildren.