Gilbert Claunch of Vietnam Veterans Chapter 154 in Clinton Township had no idea why he was attending a Macomb County Board of Commissioners meeting Wednesday afternoon.

His wife, Phyllis, only told him: “There’s something for the veterans, that’s all I said.”

But he had a suspicion when about 20 people including his family and other VVA members showed up.

Staunch, 81, of Roseville, was named as the 2025 Pat Daniels Veteran of the Year at a commission committee meeting in the county Administration Building in Mount Clemens.

“It’s quite an honor,” Staunch said afterward.

He was recognized for his work running the VVA’s food pantry for the past 14 years, quadrupling its size, including the additions of a walk-in freezer and refrigerator.

“I’m just so proud of him,” Phyllis, who helps ou

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