Joe Bowman (marksman) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Joe Bowman
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Celebrated sharpshooter, Hollywood consultant, firearms instructor, historian, and Old West artisan
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| Born | April 12, 1925 |
| Died | June 29, 2009 (aged 84) |
| Nationality | American |
| Other names | The Straight Shooter The Master of Triggernometry |
| Occupation | Bootmaker, marksman, and Western entertainer |
| Spouse(s) | Betty (Fruge) Bowman (1954–1968, divorced); Betty Reid-Bowman (c.1992–2009, his death) |
| Children | 2 |
Joseph Lee Bowman (born April 12, 1925 – died June 29, 2009) was an amazing American marksman. He was known as "The Straight Shooter." Many people saw him as a protector of Texas and Western frontier culture. Joe Bowman was also an Eagle Scout, a soldier in the U.S. Army, and a bootmaker.
The Life of Joe Bowman
Joe Bowman was born in Johnson City, Tennessee. He grew up in Asheville, North Carolina. From a young age, he loved practicing with firearms. He started by using BB guns. When he was 12, his family moved to Houston, Texas. There, he became an Eagle Scout. This is the highest rank in the Boy Scouts. He finished high school in Houston in 1943.
Serving His Country
During World War II, Joe served in the U.S. Army. He was part of the fighting in France. He was recognized for his bravery. He received three Bronze Star Medals and a Purple Heart for his service. After the war, he studied at the University of Houston for two years. Then, he opened his own boot store in Houston.
The Straight Shooter
In the 1960s, Joe sold his boot store. He became a salesman. But his real passion was performing as "The Straight Shooter" in his free time. He was incredible with guns! He could shoot an aspirin tablet from 30 paces away. He could even split a playing card edge-wise from 20 paces! He often used a pair of Ruger Blackhawk revolvers for his tricks.
Joe Bowman also taught Hollywood stars how to handle guns safely. Famous actors like Robert Duvall and James Arness learned from him. He also trained police officers and even agents from the FBI.
Later Life and Legacy
Joe Bowman passed away in June 2009. He was on his way home to Houston. He had stopped overnight in Junction, Texas, after performing at a convention. In July 2009, he was honored. He was added to the Texas Heroes Hall of Honor. This is at the Frontier Times Museum in Bandera. Joe Bowman was married twice and had two children from his first marriage.
