Stan Daily: US Army veteran

While stationed with the US Army in Europe, ordinance supply specialist 4 Stan Daily traveled extensively by train, and “passing through Checkpoint Charlie in Berlin was a highlight.”

by Patrice Johnson

Stan Daily, now 77 years old, grew up in Wayne, Mich., to parents George Daily of Indiana and Mae (Blaker) Daily of New York. In 1966, he married Gregory resident Susan Howlett, and together they raised three children, Jeffrey, Carrie (Wengorovius), and Michael.

After graduating Wayne St. Mary’s High School, Daily joined the U.S. Army. He served 22 months in France as an ordinance supply specialist, ranked Specialist 4 and was discharged just as the Vietnam War was beginning.

When asked to comment on the value of a person serving in the military, Daily commented, “After high school, I didn’t know what I wanted to do and soon realized the service was the right choice. The military taught me many things: discipline, organization, maturity, respect, good sportsmanship and the value of working with a team.”

While stationed in Europe, he said he traveled extensively by train and “passing through Checkpoint Charlie in Berlin was a highlight.” On his return home, Daily enrolled in Cleary University and graduated with a degree in business administration. He applied the skills he learned while working at Shell Oil Co. in Detroit for seven years, as owner of Howlett Hardware in Stockbridge for 14 years and in management capacity at Stockbridge State Bank for 15 years, retiring in Dec. 2003.

Also he has been a member of the Mackinder-Glenn Post 510, American Legion for over thirty years, serving as post commander 1989 to 1990.

Daily offered several nuggets of wisdom to the youth. “Have a goal, whether it is a trade or college,” he advised. “If you aren’t ready for college and can’t decide what you want to do, the service is an excellent way tomature. If you start a job, be on time and work hard. Be selective and pick good friends who share your values. Stay away from drugs.”