HYRUM – There will be a special presentation as part of this year’s Hyrum patriotic program, held at the City Square bowery on Sunday, June 29, at 7 p.m. Congressman Blake Moore of Utah’s First District will posthumously award the Purple Heart to Private Alonzo Stanton (1895-1936).
The award will be presented to Stanton’s three living nephews and niece.
“Our great-great uncle was wounded while fighting in the Argonne Forest on October 14, 1918,” said Major Nate Olsen, currently serving as a judge advocate in the 1st Armored Division, Fort Bliss, Texas. “Because it is extremely rare for the Army to posthumously award the Purple Heart from the First World War, we are getting the word out.”
Private Alonzo Stanton’s sits for an official photograph prior to serving in WW1.
The war ended on November 11, 1918, and he returned to Hyrum without being awarded a Purple Heart. It is unusual for a veteran to be posthumously decorated with that award.
During his time in France, Private Stanton wrote a letter to his family.
“I am feeling fine and getting along good with my work, although it is a different kind of work than I am used to doing,” he said. “I feel like I could march through hell if I have to. I shore [sic] feel grateful I am able to serve my country.”
In September 1918, the 77th Division went “over the top” to drive the German forces from the Argonne Forest and seize key terrain 35 miles to the north when he was wounded. He spent the next months in an Army hospital and convalescent camp.
After Private Stanton was honorably discharged from the Army on May 22, 1919, he returned to Hyrum, married Elizabeth Allen of Green River, Wyoming, and continued farming until his death on Sept. 10, 1936, from a farming accident. The couple had no children.
Stanton’s nephew, Lon Bailey, preserved many of the letters he sent home during his service in the War. Bailey grew up hearing stories about his Uncle Lon and his wartime service, but it bothered him that his uncle never received the Purple Heart during his lifetime. In November 2024, Bailey and his great-nephew, Major Olsen, petitioned the Army through Congressman Blake Moore to posthumously award their uncle the Purple Heart. They were thrilled that the request was approved.
“It is gratifying to know that the United States, even after all these years, understands that PVT Alonzo Stanton was willing to serve and sacrifice for his country,” Bailey said. “It is also important because Alonzo represents the many, many others who served and were wounded but were not recognized at the time. That generation was raised to love their county, answer the call to serve, and accomplish their mission.
“Alonzo and his fellow soldiers served in very difficult situations with patriotism and dignity. This Purple Heart acknowledges Alonzo’s sacrifice, but it also salutes his companions from Cache Valley, Utah and other places around the country who served together.”
Private Stanton is survived by extended family. The Stanton family is grateful to the team at the Department of the Army (Awards and Decorations Branch), the Office of Rep. Moore and the City of Hyrum. The Purple Heart award will be displayed in the Hyrum City Museum alongside PVT Stanton’s uniform.
Olsen said he is expecting 100 to 150 relatives of Stanton to be at the patriotic program when the Purple Heart is awarded.
Rep. Moore will be the main speaker for Sunday’s program.