Haywood “Woody” McDaniel, a Brookville resident for seven years, is focused on serving his country and his community.

McDaniel graduated from basic training in August 2009 and was deployed to Afghanistan in March 2010. He served overseas for one year, missing his son’s first birthday.

McDaniel, 34, has worked for the Clay Twp. Police Department for about 12 years.

“I enjoy the people I work with, and I enjoy being there,” he said.

McDaniel has been married to Amanda for seven years, and the couple has one son, Brayden, 4.

He plays on his church softball team, and is helping his son learn to play ice hockey.

“One of the things I learned about myself overseas was that not everything in the world has to be done right away,” McDaniel said. “You can take your time and enjoy life to the fullest.”

Favorite memory of your hometown: “The day I married my wife and the birth of my son.”

Branch of service, rank, years in service: U.S. Army Reserve, Specialist, three years of service

How person got involved in the military: “I left a job in 2009 and decided I would never put my family through never having a paycheck. I’ve always had an interest in the military.”

What actions he performed: “I am a military police officer.”

Most satisfying part about the person’s work: “It is the chance to serve my country and be part of a solution instead of a problem. The military is what you make it. It’s a job based solely on your merit and performance.”

Most memorable moment of service: “The day I graduated basic, and the time I was pinned into the military police corps And obviously coming home from overseas.”