The Taney County 100 Club has a mission to help the surviving families of law enforcement officers, firefighters and first responders who are killed or seriously injured in the line of duty.
The goal of the nonprofit organization is to provide financial support to the surviving spouse within hours of a death or injury to help with immediate needs.
Locally, the Taney County 100 Club serves a total of 15 organizations, with approximately 500 emergency personnel, within Taney County.
This week, the Taney County 100 Club paid tribute to a Taney County Hero who lost his life in the line of duty many years ago.
On August 12, 1924, Newt Boles, then Sheriff of Taney County, lost his life while serving the citizens of Taney County.
In a special ceremony on Monday, the 100th Anniversary of Boles' death, the Taney County 100 Club made a special dedication in honor of the late hero.
The ceremony, attended by Taney County 100 Club members, community leaders, county and state officials, and members of Boles' family, paid tribute to the man who was shot trying to capture a suspect wanted for bank robbery. Boles was shot and killed on a farm near Hollister by Robert Ramsey, the man he was attempting to arrest for robbing a bank in Protem. The suspect surrendered two days later and was convicted of first- degree murder and bank robbery. He was sentenced to life in prison on the murder charge and 25 years in prison for the bank robbery. Additionally, the woman who owned the farm where Boles was shot was convicted of second- degree murder when it was discovered that she slipped the pistol used to shoot Sheriff Boles to the suspect. She was sentenced to 12 years in prison.
Boles, who died at the age of 54, had served as Sheriff of Taney County for a total of 16 years. Boles left behind his wife, five sons, a daughter and two step-daughters.
Monday's ceremony began with the posting of the colors, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance, and an opening prayer.
A brief history of Sheriff Boles, one of eight Taney County law enforcement officers who gave their life in the line of duty, was presented, as well as information on the events surrounding Boles' shooting.
Pat, granddaughter of Newt Boles, addressed those in attendance. Pat is the daughter of Boles' only daughter.
"I learned, reading from history, that everyone loved my grandfather," said Pat. "I am grateful for all of you who came today to honor my grandfather. Thank you so much."
Pat was presented a resolution from the Missouri House of Representatives that said, in part, "The late Newt Boles will be honored today during the Heroes Way Dedication, hosted by the Taney County 100 Club, on August 12, 2024, and we're going to designate Coon Creek Road, off of BB Highway, as Heroes Way, remembering this true hero in a public way on the 100th anniversary of his ultimate sacrifice for this county."
Said Darin Carter, Board Secretary of the Taney County 100 Club, "The impact of Boles' untimely death reverberated throughout this entire community. It is said he was kind, with a loving nature—a man who enjoyed hunting, fishing and playing the fiddle. The loss of such a dedicated public servant left the citizens of this county in a state of shock and mourning. In honor of Sheriff Boles’ bravery and sacrifice, today we are dedicating Coon Creek Road as memorial Heroes Way. This road will serve as a reminder of the unwavering courage and selflessness displayed by Sheriff Boles throughout his life. By memorializing him in this way, we ensure that his legacy lives on, inspiring future generations to serve their communities, with the same dedication and honor."
Carter continued, "As we gather here today, let us not only remember Sheriff Newt Boles, but also acknowledge the importance of supporting the surviving spouses and families of first responders who are killed or critically injured in the line of duty. The 100 Club has its foremost goal of providing financial support to these courageous individuals and playing a crucial role in helping them navigate the challenges that come with such a devastating loss."
"Let us reflect on the life and sacrifice of Sheriff Newt Boles, a true hero who gave his life in service to his community," Carter continued. "May his memory continue to inspire us to honor and support the brave men and women who risk their lives every day to keep us safe."
Brad Daniels, Taney County Sheriff and Board member of the Taney County 100 Club, unveiled the memorial sign, in honor of Boles.
As the sign was unveiled, Carter said, "With permission from his family and support from the Commissioners of Taney County, I hereby dedicate Coon Creek as Heroes Way for Sheriff Newt Boles."
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