Mary C. (Clark) Lloyd

Mary Carmen (Clark) Lloyd holds a unique place in the history of American Legion Post 59 as the first — and, to date, only — woman to serve as Post Commander.

Born in Geneva, Nebraska, in 1965, Mary graduated from Geneva Junior-Senior High School in 1983 and enlisted in the United States Marine Corps that fall. She completed boot camp at Parris Island, South Carolina, before attending the School of Music at Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia, where she prepared for service with the Marine Corps Band.

Mary was later stationed at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, where she served with Headquarters Service Company, Headquarters Service Battalion, 2nd Fleet Service Support Group. As a warehouse clerk, she worked in one of the Marine Corps' largest warehouses, helping supply equipment to thousands of Marines. She also spent time working in the warehouse's special effects area and was stationed at French Creek on the outer edge of Camp Lejeune.

Mary completed her Marine Corps service in September 1985 at the rank of Lance Corporal.

It was also at Camp Lejeune that Mary met her husband, Robert "Bob" Lloyd, a fellow Marine who worked at the main-side warehouse. The couple later made their home in Stoughton and raised two daughters.

Service to veterans remained an important part of Mary's life after leaving the Marine Corps. She became deeply involved in the Stoughton veterans community, serving in numerous leadership and volunteer roles with the VFW Auxiliary, American Legion, Marine Corps League, and veterans programs throughout Wisconsin. Her work included Veterans Day programs, care packages for service members, poppy distributions, community service projects, and advocacy for women veterans.

Mary's commitment to veterans eventually led her to the leadership of American Legion Post 59, where she made history as the Post's first female Commander.

Her story represents both military service and a continued commitment to serving fellow veterans and the Stoughton community — a legacy that remains an important part of Post 59's history.