American soldier, lawyer, and politician who served as the 40th United States Secretary of the Interior, overseeing national parks and natural resources. He's known for his conservation efforts and environmental policies.
Stanley K. Hathaway, fondly known as Stan, is remembered as a true American patriot, distinguished politician, and dedicated public servant. He etched his name in history as the 27th Governor of Wyoming and later as the United States Secretary of the Interior under President Gerald Ford.
Stanley Knapp Hathaway was born on July 19, 1924, in Osceola, Nebraska, to Lily Koehler and Robert C. Knapp. Following his mother's untimely death when he was just two years old, he was adopted by his cousin Velma and her husband Franklin Earl Hathaway. The couple homesteaded and farmed near Huntley, Wyoming, where Stan received his early education in one-room country schools at Table Mountain and New Fairview.
After graduating as class valedictorian from Huntley High School in 1941, Hathaway briefly attended the University of Wyoming before enlisting in the Army Air Corps in 1942, following the attack on Pearl Harbor. He was trained as a radio operator and gunner, and assigned to the Eighth Air Forces 401st Bomb Group, flying B17 Bombers from England.
Hathaway's bravery in combat earned him a reputation as a true hero. He took part in 35 combat missions over France and Germany, with his unit often suffering heavy casualties. On one mission under General Jimmy Doolittle over Leipzig, Germany, Hathaway's plane and crew took heavy enemy fire, managing to return to base with 115 holes in their B17 from Nazi fighter plane rounds and antiaircraft flak.
After the war, Hathaway returned to Wyoming, where he became involved in politics. His commitment to public service earned him a seat in the Wyoming State Legislature, serving from 1963 to 1967. His exceptional leadership skills and dedication to the people of Wyoming propelled him to become the 27th Governor of Wyoming, a position he held from 1967 to 1975.
Under his governorship, Hathaway championed several key initiatives, including the creation of the Wyoming Outdoor Recreation Commission, the development of the Wyoming Game and Fish Department, and the establishment of the Wyoming Heritage Fund. His efforts focused on preserving Wyoming's natural beauty, promoting tourism, and supporting the state's economy.
In 1975, President Gerald Ford appointed Hathaway as the United States Secretary of the Interior, a role he held from June 12 to October 9, 1975. During his tenure, Hathaway oversaw the management of America's natural resources, including national parks, forests, and wildlife refuges.
His brief but impactful stint as Interior Secretary saw him prioritize environmental conservation, promote the development of national energy resources, and support the interests of Native American communities.
Stanley K. Hathaway's remarkable life and career were marked by distinction and honor. He received the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Air Medal, and the Purple Heart for his bravery in World War II.
In recognition of his outstanding public service, Hathaway was awarded the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Award in 1974. The University of Wyoming honored him with a Doctor of Laws degree in 1971.
Hathaway's legacy continues to inspire future generations of leaders and public servants. He will forever be remembered as a true patriot, dedicated to serving his country and the people of Wyoming.
Born in 1920
A pioneering conservationist who championed environmental protection and preservation of America's natural resources, particularly during the 1960s.
Born in 1736
Improved steam engine efficiency, revolutionizing industry and transportation. Known for his innovative designs and patents that transformed the Industrial Revolution.
87 Years Old
The 47th United States Secretary of the Interior, a lawyer and politician who played a key role in shaping the country's environmental and conservation policies, particularly during the Clinton administration.
71 Years Old
The 48th United States Secretary of the Interior, serving from 2001 to 2006, oversaw the country's natural resources and public lands, implementing policies on energy development and conservation. Notably, they prioritized oil and gas drilling on public lands.
