05/19/2026
Congratulations to our Commissioner, Don Stauss
We are proud to recognize Clintondale resident and Army Veteran Don Stauss as our May Veteran of the Month. Don enlisted in 1966, and soon found himself serving with the 25th Infantry Division at Cu Chi Base Camp. He navigated a year of intense mortar activity before returning home to a new assignment at West Point.
While at West Point, Don met his wife, Carolann. They got married in 1970 and have had two children and four grandchildren over their 56 years together. After leaving the military, Don’s simple desire to join the New Paltz Volunteer Fire Department’s softball team turned into a distinguished 35-year career in public service. He spent 11 years as a full-time firefighter at the Castle Point VA before challenging himself at age 43 to become the oldest cadet in the Poughkeepsie Fire Department academy. He served there faithfully until his retirement at age 65.
Today, Don remains a pillar of selfless service. An avid fly fisherman, he volunteers with the Catskill Mountain Trout Unlimited club and the HVNCVR, teaching fellow veterans the basics of fly fishing. When he isn't on the water, you can find him volunteering weekly with Ulster County Habitat for Humanity or serving as a Fire Commissioner for the Clintondale Fire District. Please join us in congratulating Don Stauss for his extraordinary dedication to his country and his neighbors!
