Joseph A. Sloat
Early Life
Joseph Edward Sloat was born on March 21, 1899, in New York and grew up in Rye, New York, as part of a long-established local family. He was raised on Purdy Avenue, where his family maintained deep roots in the community, and he spent his youth in Rye during a period of steady suburban growth.
By the time of the First World War, he was a young married man, having married Alice M. Cullen in 1917, and was already beginning to establish his own household in Rye.
World War I Service
Sloat entered military service on November 21, 1917, when he enlisted in the Regular Army at Fort Slocum, New York. He was assigned to the 47th Aero Squadron of the United States Army Air Service.
The 47th Aero Squadron was part of the rapidly expanding American air arm during World War I. Units of this type were involved in reconnaissance, aerial observation, and support functions that were critical to modern warfare, including directing artillery fire and gathering intelligence on enemy positions.
Sloat served overseas in France from March 8, 1918, to July 5, 1919, a period that included the major American offensives of 1918 and the subsequent occupation period following the Armistice. His service spanned both active combat operations and the stabilization phase that followed the end of hostilities.
During his service, he advanced to the rank of Corporal on March 1, 1919, reflecting increased responsibility within his unit.
He sustained no wounds or injuries in action and was honorably discharged on July 7, 1919.
Life After Service
Following his military service, Sloat returned to Rye, where he built a long career in public service. He served as a police officer in the City of Rye for more than twenty years, contributing to the safety and development of the community.
After his time with the police department, he continued his public service career with the Westchester County Parks Department, reflecting a lifelong commitment to civic work.
He and his wife, Alice, raised a family in Rye, including several children, and remained closely tied to the community throughout their lives.
Joseph A. Sloat died on April 19, 1984, in Yonkers, New York, at the age of 85.
He was survived by his children and extended family, many of whom remained connected to the region.