Sun staff
Lance Corporal Derrick McDaniel of the United States Marine Corps can’t get enough Skyline chili after returning home from an eight month deployment to Afghanistan.
According to his girlfriend, Katelynn Everhart, they have eaten at the restaurant nearly ever day since he has returned to his hometown.
McDaniel, a Goshen High School graduate, was recognized for his service to the country during the Clermont County Commissioners meeting June 18.
McDaniel said he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps after he graduated and was sent to Afghanistan for his first deployment.
“We did security for contractors and the whole base,” McDaniel said about his responsibilities in the country.
McDaniel said returning from the deployment and being able to come home was great. He said the first thing he did when he got off the plane and unpacked was go to IHOP.
“I missed American food,” McDaniel said.
Clermont County Commissioners, Jeff Uckotter with Congressman Brad Wenstrup’s office, Charlie Norman with Senator Mike DeWine’s office, Clermont County Sheriff A.J. “Tim” Rodenberg, and Veterans Service Commission Executive Director Howard Daugherty all welcomed McDaniel home during the meeting.
“We commend you for your service and welcome you home,” Commissioner Bob Proud said. “We are proud of you.”
McDaniel said that while he was serving, he was thankful for the packages and for the support from home.
“It means a lot,” McDaniel said. “I wasn’t expecting it to be as big. Everyone was supportive.”
McDaniel said he will be returning to Camp Lejeune in North Carolina in July. He said he is planning to continue serving the country.
“I love the Marine Corps,” McDaniel said.