Striper Spotlight: S.J. Stout – Veteran, Artist, and Stars and Stripes Cartoonist
Introduction:
The Stars and Stripes National Museum and Library is proud to feature S.J. Stout in this edition of our Striper Spotlight. A retired military veteran with 20 years of service in both the U.S. Marines and U.S. Army, Stout has left an indelible mark on the military community through his humorous and heartfelt contributions as a cartoonist for Stars and Stripes. His work, ranging from combat art to lighthearted editorial cartoons, captures the essence of military life with authenticity and wit. Join us as we celebrate his legacy, drawing from a historic article published on August 9, 1969, in the European Stars and Stripes, alongside an overview of his remarkable career and life.
Early Life and Military Service:
S.J. Stout, a native of Tyler, Texas, embarked on a diverse and colorful journey before becoming a celebrated military cartoonist. After excelling in commercial art courses in high school, Stout enlisted in the Marine Corps, serving at Camp Pendleton, California, aboard an aircraft carrier in the Philippines, and during the 1958 Lebanon Crisis. His time at Pendleton also sparked an interest in bronco riding, leading him to compete in rodeos in Pendleton, Phoenix, and Houston. Following his Marine service, Stout worked in advertising and submitted his first cartoons to Horseman’s Magazine. In 1962, feeling restless, he joined the Army, where his first assignment in Germany introduced him to his wife, Elizabeth, with whom he raised a son and a daughter.
Cartooning Career with Stars and Stripes:
During his military career, Stout served as an artist and editorial cartoonist for Stars and Stripes, creating works that resonated deeply with service members. His cartoons, often focusing on the enlisted experience, included the beloved Boot Camp series, which humorously depicted daily military life—drill sergeants, basic training challenges, and the culture shock of recruits. These illustrations provided a relatable outlet for troops, fostering camaraderie and offering a way to cope with the stresses of service through humor. Stout’s art, designed for immediate publication in the daily military newspaper, captured the mindset of the average U.S. soldier, touching on shared quips, complaints, and the unique bonds formed in service.
Highlights from 1969 Stars and Stripes Article by Walt Trott:
In an article titled “Artist Draws on Army Humor about the Creator of ‘The NCO’: SSgt. Stewart J. Stout,” published on August 9, 1969, in Giessen, Germany, Staff Writer Walt Trott spotlighted Stout’s burgeoning career as a cartoonist while serving as a Staff Sergeant in the 19th Main Battalion. Below are key excerpts from this historic piece:
- On His Cartoon Series ‘The NCO’: “The Army’s answer to Herblock and Oliphant may well be Staff Sgt. Stewart J. Stout… In his cartoon series, ‘The NCO,’ the 30-year-old veteran jabs good-naturedly at fellow NCOs who take themselves too seriously. His humorous drawings regularly appear in the Army Times and the Stars and Stripes.”
- On Humor in Military Life: “Besides, there’s a wealth of humor in military life. When you can see this, it makes your duty seem a lot easier,” Stout declared.
- On His Creative Process: “He created ‘The NCO’ because he is one and uses his own experiences for new ideas. In building a cartoon, the husky GI noted that he first draws the picture and later adds the caption. ‘I have to study the expressions of my characters before deciding on the punchline,’ he continued.”
- On Recognition and Teaching: “Earlier this year, Stout’s contributions earned him the USAREUR ‘Best Cartoonist Award’ in their annual project partnership. A new project on Stout’s schedule started this week. He became a teacher for about 40 art students in an evening class sponsored by Giessen Special Services… Although this doesn’t leave the soldier-cartoonist much free time, he confided that the busy schedule is both a challenge and a source of satisfaction to him.”
This article captures Stout at a pivotal moment, balancing his military duties as operations chief at the Giessen-based V Coscom unit with his passion for art and teaching.
Post-Military Life and Legacy:
After retiring from the military in 1979, Stout continued to share his legacy through published books compiling his Boot Camp cartoons, drawing from both his own experiences and those of his son during boot camp. Now residing in Lee’s Summit, Missouri, Stout remains connected to the veteran community. His artwork has been showcased in local exhibits, including a special tribute to veterans at the Lee’s Summit History Museum. Through his illustrations, Stout continues to honor the experiences of service members, blending humor and history to preserve the spirit of military life.
Conclusion:
S.J. Stout’s journey from a military veteran to a celebrated Stars and Stripes cartoonist exemplifies the power of art to connect and uplift, even in the most challenging environments. His cartoons not only entertained but also fostered a sense of unity among troops, reminding us of the humor and heart in military service. The Stars and Stripes National Museum and Library is honored to spotlight his contributions, preserving his legacy for future generations to appreciate.
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