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Stanley Hamer Ford was born on 30 January 1877 in Columbus, Ohio. He graduated from Ohio State University in 1898 with a Bachelor of Philosophy degree and received a commissioning in to the US Army.
Ford served with the 16th Infantry in Cuba and the 25th Infantry in the Philippines during the Spanish-American War. Followed by postings at Jefferson Barracks, Missouri, Washington D.C and Fort Drum, New York in the Quartermaster Corps.
He traveled to Europe as Assistant Chief of Staff of the 84th Infantry Division. Then a Colonel he became the Chief of Staff of the 27th Infantry Division under the command of Major General John F. O'Ryan.
He was recognized for his wartime service with the Army Distinguished Service Medal. His citation reads:
"The President of the United States authorized, by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Army Distinguished Service Medal to Colonel (Infantry) Stanley Hamer Ford, United States Army, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished services to the Government of the United States, in a duty of great responsibility during World War I. As Chief of Staff of the 27th Division, Colonel Ford rendered valuable services in the operations of this division. By tireless energy, good judgment, and keen foresight he proved to be an important factor in the brilliant military operations of the 27th Division."
Remaining in the Army, Ford completed the General Staff College in 1920, was the commander of the 16th Infantry Regiment from 1924 to 1926 and served as Assistant Chief of Staff of the Army's Military Intelligence Division until 1930.
Promoted to Brigadier General in 1930, General Ford served as military attache in Paris, France and then commanded 1st Brigade 1st Infantry Division. Followed by command of the Philippine Department.
In 1936 he received his second star and held many more commands including 1st Infantry Division and various Corps Areas.
In October 1938 Ford took command of the Second Army, which was responsible for overseeing U.S. Army organizations in several mid-western and southern states.
As commander of Second Army Ford oversaw execution of large scale maneuvers and exercises by active Army and National Guard troops in their preparation for overseas deployment to either Europe or the Pacific Theaters. General Ford ended his military career upon reaching mandatory retirement age in January, 1941.
Distinguished Service Medal
Spanish Campaign Medal
Philippine Campaign Medal
Cuban Pacification Medal
World War I Victory medal
American Defense Service Medal
Officer of the French Legion of Honor
Belgian Croix de Guerre with palm.
- Major General Dress Uniform.
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