Staff reportsIt takes overwhelming commitment, loyalty and consistency to receive an Oklahoma Farmers Union meritorious service award. Earlier this month, the organization handed out only the 13th in its 115-year history, leaving its recipient speechless. Phillip “Pete” McDaniel, of Apache, told attendees at the American Farmers & Ranchers/Oklahoma Farmers Union state convention he simply didn’t know what to say. “I was at a loss for words; I was so stunned and shocked,” said McDaniel, who has farmed since 1959 and whose extended family also surprised him at the event. “I’m truly grateful,” said McDaniel.Read more on NewsOK.com