Howard Daugherty

Howard Daugherty
By Kristin Bednarski
Sun staff

Howard Daugherty was appointed to become the executive director of Clermont County Veterans’ Service Commission Oct. 1.

Daugherty, a Bethel resident, served as commissioner of the Clermont County Veterans’ Service Commission from 1999-2012. He has filled the position left by Danny Bare, who retired at the end of May.

Daugherty said it felt great to be selected for the position.

“I love veterans, and I love working with veterans,” Daugherty said.

He said he is looking forward to serving as executive director and continuing to lead the commission.

“Basically carrying on the great things we have been doing,” Daugherty said. “Danny was a wonderful person, and he did a great job.”

Daugherty said he wants to continue the effective job they are doing with claim work and emergency finance assistance for veterans. He said he would also like to make the office and the services more visible in the community.

“I would like to bring more of an open presence with the community,” Daugherty said. “Be more visual.”

Daugherty served in the Vietnam War. He was inducted into the Ohio Military Hall of Fame in 2006 and was recognized for his valor during service combat in Vietnam.

He is a life member of the American Legion, American Veterans, Military Order of the Purple Heart, Disabled American Veterans, Veterans of Foreign Wars and the Vietnam Veterans of America.

In addition to military organizations, Daugherty also serves as a Tate Township trustee, is involved with the Lyons Club, Clermont County Historical Society and more.

Daugherty lives in Bethel with his wife, Terri. He has a son, Paul, and a daughter, Amy.

Daugherty’s commissioner seat will be filled by a member of the DAV. Daugherty said DAV Chapter 63 has submitted three names of individuals interested in the position, and a Clermont County judge will interview and select and individual to be commissioner.

Daugherty said the position should be filled by January of 2013.