Mr. and Mrs. Ballantyne, photographed here in 1945, after Mr. Ballantyne returned from World War II.
Congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. Reginald Ballantyne who today celebrate their 70th wedding anniversary. The Ballantyne’s are well known throughout Huletts, having originally vacationed at the Hulett Hotel in the 1950’s. Throughout their many years on Lake George, the Ballantynes have taught many how to water-ski. (Including me.)
The Ballantynes were married on December 23, 1942, 70 years ago today.
Mr. Ballantyne left shortly thereafter as an officer with the the 34th Infantry Division to fight in World War II. The performance of 34th Infantry in the mountains of Italy is considered one of the finest feats carried out by any soldiers during the war. In return, the 34th’s Infantry battalions sustained losses of about 80%. Mr. Ballantyne participated in many of the epic battles of World War II in Italy; Salerno, Monte Cassino, and Anzio, to name but a few. He would go on to win two Purple Hearts fighting in the Apennines of Italy. The officer who submitted the paperwork for his first Purple Heart was killed the day after he submitted the paperwork. “I was lucky to get back, a lot of the fellows I served with didn’t, ” said Mr. Ballantyne.
The Ballantynes have 6 children and several grandchildren and will be celebrating today with their family.
Congratulations to both Mr. and Mrs. Ballantyne on this very rare accomplishment and may the happy couple be blessed with many more years ahead!