Memorial Service
Private Richard Gordon Wright, U.S. Marine Corps, born June 6, 1921, in Sparks, Oklahoma, was buried with military honors on July 18 at Dignity Memorial Park Cemetery in Oklahoma City. The ceremony began at 2 p.m., with cicadas loudly singing in the hot, still air.

Was that unusual?

Yes. Why?

Wright died on November 20, 1943, 81 years ago during WWII on Betio Island in the Gilbert Islands. His remains were not identified until February 8, 2024, by the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) and returned to Oklahoma City on July 11, 2025 – more than eight decades after his death.

As the service drew near, at least 75 people gathered in quiet respect. Members from American Legions (Posts 19, Woodward; 111, Edmond; 88, Norman; 142, Hominy, and others) and Veterans of Foreign Wars (Posts 4938, Edmond; 7977, Skiatook; 3077, Collinsville; 7180, Owasso, and others) came, as did those with no affiliation.

Although no one knew Wright personally, they came to witness the homecoming of a Marine who served his country with honor and gave his life for future generations.

Charli Ford, one of two historians and archivists of military history at the Hamilton VFW Auxiliary 4938 in Edmond (President Amanda Duncan is the other) gave the eulogy and thanked those who made Wright’s repatriation possible, including “the DPAA (Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency) for their efforts to recover, organize, analyze and identify the remains of the missing. And a special thank you to Mr. (Narsease) Tolen, Richard’s first cousin, for the donation of the DNA while he was still alive. His DNA was used to positively identify Richard.” Her voice carried pride and emotion while she recounted Wright’s early life. Ford ended with, “After today,” Ford said, “Richard’s journey comes to a close… May we never forget Richard’s sacrifice.”

Chaplain Ed Beesley, a Vietnam War veteran and member of Post 4938, described how well Betio Island was fortified by the Japanese against a large-scale amphibious assault by Americans. Beesley continued, “I want you to understand the Marines did it in three days…it was a fierce battle…which would come to be known in the Marine Corps as ‘Bloody Tarawa.’ What struck me, is…our own Oklahoma Marine was a part of the first wave on that beach landing on the 20th November, 1943…My understanding was that Richard’s landing craft was hit by mortar fire…” Wright’s 2nd Marine Regiment, about 150 men, was almost annihilated that day.

The service concluded with a prayer, seven-gun salute provided by VFW District 5, the playing of taps, and a moving flag folding ceremony followed by presenting it to Ed Zink of Weaubleau, Missouri, who represented the family. Zink is a second cousin to Wright. The crowd slowly, quietly slipped away.

Wright’s family
Zink spoke of his family’s connection to Wright. “My mother’s mother (Zink’s grandmother) was the sister to Richard’s mother. They were sisters…George Ann and Sharon are Richard’s nieces and they knew about him. Their brother was named after him. So, they knew he was missing, they just never expected him to come home.”

“I’m honored to be able to represent the family and to acknowledge his military career, as short as it was.” Zink, a Marine, understands sacrifice. He served two tours of duty in Vietnam and one in Thailand.
He praised the research Charlie Ford and VFW Post 4938 performed. “They’ve done a wonderful job. Charlie…has been unbelievable. She’s been on this case for several years. They went above and beyond.”

Identifying veteran remains
Amanda Duncan said, “We do a lot of work with MIAs, POWs. It is something our post and our auxiliary is very passionate about.”

She explained the meticulous process of identifying remains. “When something like this happens, first of all, they (DPAA) look at the service record and where they enlisted out of.” Other clues: where family lives(d) and where the deceased’s military unit was engaged in battle.

In Wright’s case, a relative was located in just a few days, though the full process – DNA testing, approvals, and transport – can take months. Ford described how she reached out to a family member through the Ancestry website after a relative built Wright’s family tree. “I noticed she had him on the tree… trying to see… what relation she was and if we could find somebody to give DNA.”

Private Wright is buried in the same cemetery as his father, Henry Wright, a World War I veteran, and grandfather and grandmother, William and Eva Wright.
There are 1,185 Oklahoma MIA/POW servicemen awaiting repatriation.
• story by Lt Col Richard Stephens, Jr., USAFR, Ret.

By Marilyn Olson, Executive Director, VillagesOKC

March 29 will be a full day of celebration and commemoration for VillagesOKC members. It’s National Vietnam Veterans Day, and two major events will fill the day. A morning ceremony at the Oklahoma History Center Museum will honor all Vietnam-era veterans. An afternoon ceremony at Del City High School will recognize the character and sacrifice of 1st Lt. James Robert Kalsu.
VillagesOKC is partnering with the Oklahoma History Center Museum, the local offices of Humana, Oklahoma Warriors Honor Flight, the Force 50 Foundation and Navigating Medicare to host a pinning ceremony honoring all the servicemen and servicewomen, active or reservists, who served anywhere in the world during the Vietnam War-era. Each will receive a lapel pin inscribed with “A Grateful Nation Thanks and Honors You.”
The event will be held in the Devon Great Hall of the museum 10 a.m. to noon, with the doors opening at 9:00 a.m. This event is free and open to the public.
At 1 p.m. that afternoon, a larger-than-life monument to Kalsu will be unveiled at the Del City High School stadium which bears his name. At 1:30 p.m. in the Del City Performing Arts Center there will be a Vietnam-Era Veteran pinning ceremony and premier of the documentary “Uncommon Character – the Legacy of James Robert Kalsu.”
Kalsu was a stand-out student and Del City High School football star, an All-American at the University of Oklahoma, and Rookie of the Year for the Buffalo Bills, who became the only active professional athlete killed in action in the Vietnam War.
“If our children and grandchildren are to truly value the freedoms we have, it will be experiencing events like this where men and women are honored for their character and selfless acts of valor,” said VillagesOKC Executive Director Marilyn Olson. “VillagesOKC values our veterans and intends to continue finding ways to honor them.”
According to a release from the museum: “March 29 was designated as Vietnam Veterans Day by the 2008 National Defense Authorization Act, to be commemorated with annual nationwide events. Guided by the stipulations in that act, only Vietnam War veterans and their families are recognized. However, the Vietnam War Commemoration organization is providing recognition pins to honor any US veteran who served on active duty or in the reserves in the US Armed Forces at any time during the period of November 1, 1955, to May 15, 1975, regardless of location, Vietnam or elsewhere. Family members of any veteran unable to be present may also receive this pin.”
The keynote speaker will be Colonel “Chuck” DeBellevue who has been deemed “Ace of Aces;” one of only five to achieve that status from downing six North Vietnamese MiGs. Altogether, he logged 550 combat hours while flying 220 combat missions; 96 over Vietnam. His decorations include the Air Force Cross, three Silver Stars, three Legions of Merit, six Distinguished Flying Crosses, eighteen Air Medals and the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Device. In 2012, he was inducted into the Oklahoma Military Hall of Fame and received the Congressional Gold Medal.

Visit: https://villagesokc.org/

Retired U.S. Air Force Col. Charles “Chuck” DeBellevue, now living in Edmond, is the top Vietnam War fighter ace, with six MiG kills, from the last American aerial combat era to produce aces.

“The U.S. Air Force credited us Weapons System Officers (WSOs) with equal credit for MiG kills in Vietnam because we were essential in the F-4 Phantom II weapons and sensor team with the pilot and the other fighters in our flights,” DeBellevue said in an interview. “The aircraft was designed around advanced radar and air-to-air missiles, and as the WSO in the back seat, my vigilance was critical to the team for operating this complex system to shoot down MiGs.”

The McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom II fighter, a high-altitude interceptor, was developed with the assumption that long-range, radar-guided missiles would render classic dogfighting obsolete. The supersonic fighter relied entirely on its missile armament and fire-control radar system to engage targets. This system was far too complex for a single pilot to manage while also flying the aircraft in combat, especially while maintaining mission communications and navigation duties.

The WSO was responsible for operating the aircraft’s powerful radar, tracking enemy aircraft, to help direct the pilot, while also managing targeting and the use of weapons. The WSO managed the firing of the F-4’s sophisticated AIM-7 Sparrow and AIM-9 Sidewinder air-to-air missiles.

“My role in shooting down North Vietnamese Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-19s and MiG-21s was to assess situational awareness of the whole tactical battlefield in the sky,” DeBellevue said. “This included what was being fired at us from the ground to shoot us down. We fought in the most heavily defended airspace in the world, except around Moscow during the Vietnam War. Whenever we flew close to Hanoi, we became the target, not the MiGs we were engaging.”

WSOs were also trained in ground attack, reconnaissance, electronic warfare, and forward air control.

Although not designed for extensive monitoring of ground threats, the F-4 proved to be a special aircraft in missions to shoot down MiGs because it used the top-secret Combat Tree system, installed on a select few F-4s. This equipment played a pivotal role in their missions as air crews gained a decisive advantage over Vietnamese Air Force MiGs.

Combat Tree was a modified Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) interrogator. The Vietnamese used Soviet-made SRO-2 IFF transponders on their MiGs. The enemy ground-controlled interception stations and Surface-to-Air missile (SAMs) sites used the transponder signal to distinguish friendly aircraft from US attackers.

“We used the Combat Tree our technical geniuses came up with to gain the tactical advantage. By ‘interrogating’ the enemy’s IFF system, we could receive a signal from the MiG’s transponder,” DeBellevue said. “This gave the F-4 crew a positive, long-range identification of a MiG, even in the ‘look-down’ clutter of my normal radar screen.”

The Combat Tree employed a passive detection method, unlike a normal radar “lock,” allowing it to passively detect and target MiGs from beyond visual range without alerting the enemy. This allowed the American F-4 crews to maneuver into an optimal position for an ambush.

On May 10, 1972, DeBellevue, flying with pilot Captain Steve Ritchie on a MiG Combat Air Patrol (MiGCAP), was vectored by command and control aircraft toward a flight of MiG-21s. Combat Tree allowed DeBellevue to identify and track one of the MiG-21s from beyond visual range.

With the Combat Tree providing a confirmed, long-range target, Ritchie strategically maneuvered their F-4 into an optimal firing position. DeBellevue launched two AIM-7 Sparrow missiles, scoring their first kill. This strategic thinking and quick decision-making in the heat of battle, amidst the intense pressure, are what made the air crew successful.

On July 8, 1972, while Captain Ritchie was flying a MiG sweep in an F-4E, they were alerted to two MiG-21s.

The men tracked the lead MiG and then quickly confirmed the second, trailing MiG, which was a known tactic for ambushing American fighters.

Ritchie to set up a reversal maneuver without the MiGs detecting them. DeBellevue fired two AIM-7 Sparrows at the trailing MiG, one of which hit the engine for the second kill. A quick maneuver onto the lead MiG and a final Sparrow secured the third kill, all within two minutes.

On August 28, 1972, DeBellevue and Captain Ritchie were protecting a Linebacker strike mission. When they encountered a single MiG-21 at high altitude, the crew used Combat Tree to acquire a radar lock that was head-on, giving them a critical ‘first-look’ advantage. DeBellevue fired four AIM-7 missiles, with the fourth finally impacting the MiG.

DeBellevue’s last two kills, making him an ace and the highest scoring ace of the war, took place on September 9, 1972. Ace is defined as having five or more confirmed aerial victories. Flying with his new pilot, Captain John Madden, on a MiGCAP flight near Phuc Yen Air Base in North Vietnam, they were engaged by two MiG-19s.

“The strength of our partnership and the teamwork between us, our mutual reliance on each other, was evident in this final mission,” DeBellevue said.

Supplying his pilot with Combat Tree data, Madden was able to perform a “slicing, low-speed yo-yo” maneuver to get behind the first MiG-19. DeBellevue then guided a heat-seeking AIM-9 Sidewinder to detonate near the first MiG. A quick switch to the second MiG allowed them to launch another AIM-9, which hit that aircraft’s tail. The two kills were scored within minutes of each other.

“All of this dogfight action is what the public wants to hear about. But first, we had to survive the battlefield below us to hunt and kill MiGs,” DeBellevue said.

The F-4 Phantom II WSOs faced a sophisticated and dense integrated air defense system primarily supplied and developed by the Soviet Union. The WSO used the F-4’s electronics to detect and counter these threats.

This threat included SAMs, radar-guided, high-altitude missiles that could reach up to 90,000 feet. WSOs were responsible for operating electronic countermeasures to give the pilot crucial information about the missile’s launch and flight path. By acting on this info to make evasive maneuvers, they countered the SAM threat.

Another ground-based missile threat WSOs monitored was SA-7 “Grail” (Strela-2), a shoulder-fired, heat-seeking missile. The WSO would often be the first to spot the launch smoke trail or receive electronic warnings. He then directed the pilot to deploy flares to confuse the missile’s heat seeker, thereby increasing the aircraft’s chances of survival.

North Vietnamese Anti-Aircraft Artillery’s (AAA) multi-layered threat was responsible for more American aircraft losses than any other enemy weapon system. The enemy employed a wide range of Soviet and Chinese-supplied anti-aircraft guns, from heavy machine guns to giant cannons.

The WSOs employed countermeasures for all this battlefield danger. In addition to using Electronic Countermeasures pods to jam larger radar-guided guns, the WSO would monitor and call out AAA activity based on visual cues and radar indications. This allowed the pilot to adjust flight paths and perform evasive actions to mitigate the risk of being hit.

Observing outside the cockpit while also focused on their electronic warfare responsibilities, the WSO focused on the broader threat beyond just the immediate visual field. This vigilance was crucial for the survival of both crew members.

“It was my job to keep us alive by constantly scanning for enemy threats on the ground and other planes approaching while the pilot flew the aircraft,” DeBellevue said. “This experience, while I worked with two different pilots during my time above Hanoi and North Vietnam, made me a new type of ace in a new kind of war.”

The F-4’s two-person pilot-WSO team revolutionized air combat by proving that a dual-crew design could effectively manage the workload of a complex, multi-role fighter. Pilot Ritchie and WSO DeBellevue of the 555th Tactical Fighter Squadron (“Triple Nickel”) were the USAF’s only aces of the Vietnam War. •
story and photos by Darl DeVault, contributing editor

Story by Darl Devault, contributing editor

Oklahomans are invited to join Veterans May 14-17 at Mitch Park in Edmond to experience The Wall That Heals, a three-quarter scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C. This traveling wall honors the men and women who gave their lives in Vietnam or later died as a result of their service.
“I often enjoy walking in Mitch Park. Having the Wall that Heals there will remind me of the friends I lost during the war and the human cost of the war,” said retired Air Force Col. Chuck DeBellevue. “This will create a sacred and solemn place that helps bring a calmness to the memories of my kind and Vietnam Veterans and their families.”
DeBellevue, 80, retired to Edmond in 1998 after a distinguished 30-year military career and has since been an active speaker to members of the local and veteran communities. His story as the highly decorated last American air ace on active duty, with six aerial victories in 1972 in an F-4 Phantom
II above North Vietnam, is a source of patriotic pride and inspiration for all who hear it.
The Edmond VFW Post 4938 is hosting The Wall That Heals and is recruiting volunteers to assemble it. Through volunteer support, community partnerships, and public engagement, they invite everyone to take part in this shared act of remembrance.
The Mitch Park exhibit spans 375 feet in length and rises to 7.5 feet at
its apex, constructed of Avonite, a durable synthetic granite. It features 140 numbered panels supported by an aluminum frame.
Modern LED lighting illuminates the memorial so names can be read clearly both day and night. Visitors are welcome to do name rubbings of individual service members as a meaningful and personal way to honor those listed.
The Wall’s 140 panels contain the names of more than 58,000 Vietnam service members, 990 of whom are Oklahomans, ensuring accuracy and consistency with the original Memorial.
In addition to open viewing of The Wall, several special ceremonies and community events will take place during the four days. These moments honor specific groups, recognize service, and provide opportunities for reflection and remembrance.
May 14 – 9 a.m. Native American Vietnam Service Recognition Ceremony A ceremony honoring the service and sacrifice of Native American veterans and their Nations who served during the Vietnam War.
May 14 – 6 p.m. Vietnam Veterans Welcome Home Ceremony
A long-overdue welcome home for Vietnam veterans, recognizing their service, sacrifice, and dedication.
May 15 – 6 p.m. HMONG SGU Recognition Ceremony
Honoring the Hmong Special Guerrilla Units who served alongside U.S. forces during the Vietnam War.

May 16 – 9 p.m. Light Up the Night – Oklahoma County MIA Tribute
A powerful evening tribute honoring the more than 100 Missing in Action service members from Oklahoma County during the Vietnam War. This ceremony will illuminate The Wall in remembrance of those who have not yet come home.
While traveling, the Walls That Heal are more accessible to many Oklahomans, highlighting their significance and encouraging community engagement. Oklahoma is graced with a permanent replica 80% the size of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall in Washington, D.C., dedicated on Veterans Day 2013 in Enid. This replica was retired to Enid after traveling the country, measuring 380 feet long and 8 feet high at its tallest point, and made of anodized aluminum.
Gov. Mary Fallin proclaimed it Oklahoma’s Official Vietnam War Memorial. The memorial reminds patriots that freedom is not free, is open to the public and free of charge from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. year-round, encouraging ongoing engagement and respect.
The Wall stands at Woodring Regional Airport. “It is a somber reminder of those who gave their lives so we can live in freedom, and a tribute to honor our men and women who are serving or have served in the military,” said Gov. Fallin in 2013 at its dedication.
The Living Walls, located across the street from the Vietnam War Memorial in Enid, honor and remember our military heroes. It is dedicated to Oklahoma veterans, active duty, retired, MIA, those killed while serving, and those who made the ultimate sacrifice, fostering pride and respect among visitors.
Just west of the site is the M.L. Becker Educational Center, a collection of permanent and temporary exhibits featuring patriotic, military and war-related memorabilia. The center won a 2019 Oklahoma Museums Association award for Education and Outreach. The center is open by appointment only for student groups, except on Vietnam Veterans Day and Memorial Days, when it is open all day.
Vietnam Veterans have been the focus of a groundswell of recognition over the past 14 years as the U.S. government has executed a sustained, multi-administration effort to provide “overdue recognition” to Vietnam-era Veterans.
The 50th Anniversary Commemoration
(2012-2025), authorized by Congress and launched in 2012, was designed to thank and honor the 9 million Americans who served on active duty between November 1, 1955, and May 15, 1975.
This congressional mandate’s primary objective was to “right a wrong” for Veterans who were often ignored or mistreated upon their initial return home.
In reaction to this effort, more than 11,000 local, state, and national organizations, such as the VFW, have partnered with the Department of Defense to host thousands of community-based events.
The Vietnam War Veterans Recognition Act of 2017 codified the nation’s commitment to Vietnam Veterans by establishing March 29 as National Vietnam War Vietnam Veteran’s Memorial in Washington, D.C. Veterans Day.

That date was chosen because it marks the anniversary of when the last U.S. combat troops departed Vietnam, and the last prisoners of war were released in 1973. The act added March 29 to the list of days on which the U.S. flag should be specifically
displayed to honor these Veterans.
A central feature of the 50th-anniversary efforts has been the distribution of Vietnam Veteran Lapel Pins in formal ceremonies as a “Token of Gratitude”: These pins, featuring the message “A Grateful Nation Thanks and Honors You,” were presented at public ceremonies to provide a “welcome home” that many never received. Since 2012, more than 3 million. Veterans have been publicly thanked at more than 21,000 ceremonies.
Most importantly, recognition has also shifted toward addressing the long-term physical toll of the war with expanded health research and benefits.
The VA launched the Vietnam Era Health Retrospective Observational Study in 2016, the most comprehensive health assessment of this Veteran group since the 1980s, focusing on the impacts of Agent Orange and PTSD. And most recently, the new PACT Act integration at the VA in recent years has been offering toxic exposure screenings and expanded healthcare enrollment specifically for Vietnam-era Veterans.

Veterans who receive community care for medical treatment have been required in the past to seek and receive new referrals every 90 to 180 days. Just getting that referral or authorization can cause delays in treatment. Now, with changes at the VA, those referrals won’t be as frequent.
Starting now, in 30 different categories of medical care, referrals and new authorizations will only be required once a year.
Community care can literally be a lifesaver for veterans who live too far from a VA medical facility, whose closest facility doesn’t provide the medical care that’s required or if the VA’s wait times are not acceptable.
Here are a few of the 30 medical categories that are now eligible for the longer authorization: cardiology, oncology, gastroenterology, pain management and pulmonary.
If you’ve been getting community medical care and are subject to the need for frequent reauthorizations, contact the Community Care office at your closest VA medical center to ask how the new rule impacts the schedule you’ll be on going forward. Ask whether the new “year” began when your current authorization period did, or whether a new year begins right now. Get the answer in writing, if you can. Take the steps you need to, to guarantee that your authorization is indeed extended so you don’t discover at the last minute that there’s been a problem and that your file was overlooked.
If you’d like to take advantage of community care, you need to be enrolled in VA health care or be eligible for it.
If you’re getting VA care, tell your VA physician that you’d like to get community care. If they think it’s appropriate, they will start a referral.
Once you find a civilian community care provider that you like, be sure to verify that they’re part of the VA’s network before you get any treatment from them, otherwise VA won’t pay for it.
To learn more about community care or to find a provider in your area, go online to www.va.gov/communitycare. •
By Freddy Groves
(c) 2025 King Features Synd., Inc.

By Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner Glen Mulready

Many families have experienced the loss of a loved one only to discover later that a life insurance policy existed tucked away in old files, forgotten about or just unknown to the beneficiaries. Life insurance provides a financial lifeline during those most difficult times, but beneficiaries can miss out on the support they need when benefits go unclaimed. The Life Insurance Policy Locator (LIPL) can help in these situations. The Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) has helped to connect thousands of Oklahomans with millions in unclaimed life insurance policy benefits since we launched this transformative tool in 2016. I want to share more about the LIPL and how it can help you.
Before we discuss using the tool, I want to stress the importance of life insurance in your financial planning. It may seem difficult to address or discuss, but it can help your loved ones in case something unforeseen happens to you. When to purchase, what kind of policy to buy, and how much in benefits will depend on you and your situation. You will want to consider how many people rely on you financially and your financial obligations to help you answer those questions. You can find more information about life insurance shopping at www.oid.ok.gov/life.
So, how does the LIPL work? It’s easy, free and secure. First, visit www.oid.ok.gov/LIPL and click “Get Started.” Next, you will submit your request, which requires information from the deceased’s death certificate, such as the Social Security number, legal name, date of birth, date of death and the decedent’s veteran status. You will also need to indicate your relationship to the deceased. Finally, you will click the submit button and receive a confirmation email. If a policy is found and you are the beneficiary, the life insurance or annuity company will contact you directly.
The success of the LIPL speaks for itself. Since the tool’s launch in 2016, OID has helped to connect over 8,000 Oklahomans with over $161 million in unclaimed life insurance policy benefits, with almost 1,500 claiming over $32 million this year alone. The LIPL has significantly impacted the lives of many, and it can do the same for you.
Life insurance can be a lifeline to loved ones in a time of loss. However, many aren’t aware that they may be the beneficiary of a life insurance policy or an annuity. If you believe you are a beneficiary, use the free LIPL tool to find out today. If you have any questions about life insurance or need assistance with any other insurance-related questions, please call OID at 800-522-0071 or visit www.oid.ok.gov.

Bill Norfleet has been collecting coins for years, and after retiring, he took his collecting to the next level by opening his business Brazito Coins and Collectibles, located at 2525 Northwest Expressway, Suite 222 in Oklahoma City.

“I’ve collected coins for a long time, and when I retired, I decided I’d just start selling some and buying some and trading back and forth,” he said. “It keeps me off the sofa. It helps me to meet people and do things.”

Norfleet sells/buying at coin shows, sells coins online, and meets with individuals by appointment only at his Oklahoma City office location.

“I’m not a high-pressure salesman at all,” he said. “I’m not going to pressure them to sell them (coins). I just try to help them (with coin information/values). Hopefully they’ll come back when they do want to sell them if they do.”

Norfleet said the internet has changed the way coins are sold.

“The online section is taking over from the storefront business,” he said. “Coin shows are not a storefront, but they’re akin to them. It’s face-to-face-stuff. I’m afraid that the (smaller) coin show deal is kind of dying.”

Norfleet said there are still larger coin shows that attract buyers/sellers from across the country.

“One of the biggest ones in the country is in Orlando, Florida,” he said. “We went to that one in January. It had 660 tables. We went to one a couple weeks ago in Houston. That’s a pretty good size show with 120 tables. There was a lot going on there. A lot of people buy and sell. The bigger shows have many different things there, and you draw a whole lot more people.”

Norfleet said to help better attendance at the Oklahoma coin shows, he is using email to help attract more attendees.

“We are trying something new. We’re going to send out an email to about the first 1,000 people that are identified as having an interest in coins,” he said. “We’ll send out a few emails, one of them four weeks before the event and one another week or 10 days before the event. We’ll see how that works.”

Norfleet said his website features a variety of certified coins.
Certified coins have been graded by an authoritative third party like the Professional Coin Grading Organization (PCGS) or Numismatic Guarantee Company (NGC).

A coin that has been certified will come in a tamper-evident encapsulation or slab from the organization that certified and graded it. This slab will have the necessary information to verify the coin’s grade and authenticity.

“A lot of what we have for sale are what are called certified coins, and they’re in a plastic container,” he said.

Norfleet said coin collectors have a wide variety of coin interests.

“It’s just wide (coin interests),” he said. “Two of the most popular of all time are Morgan dollars and Peace dollars. The (Morgan) were made from 1878 to 1921. Now there were some years in the 1920’s and 1930’s when they weren’t made because the price of silver got to where it didn’t make sense to make a dollar with it. They made a few in 1934 and 1935. The Peace dollars were made from 1921 to 1935. Gold coins are popular. The Indian head two-and-a-half-, five- and ten-dollar Indian head gold coins. The Saint-Gaudens coins are popular.”

Norfleet said he receives phone calls from people who are interested in selling their coins and inquiring about what they might be appraised at.

“We talk about what they have, and that gives me a good feel whether it’s worth their time and mine for us to get together or not,” he said. “I had one lady call and said she had a lot of foreign coins she was interested in getting appraised. I told her I didn’t handle foreign coins, but I gave her information on some people who do. Sometimes you get people who don’t have any children or grandchildren, or as is my case, don’t have any children or grandchildren who are interested in coins. That’s true of a lot of people. We try to be helpful to them in figuring out how to make that decision, whether they want to sell them or keep them.”

Norfleet said he has never lost interest in collecting coins.

“I just enjoy the hunt, but I’ve always enjoyed going to coin shows and taking a list with me of things that I want and looking for them,” he said. “Sometimes you don’t find what you are looking for. But a lot of times, you’ll find something.” •
story by Van Mitchell, staff writer

For more information about coins call Norfleet at (405) 495-4000, email [email protected] or visit www.brazitocoinsandcollectibles.com

SAN DIEGO – Lt. J. G. Sofia Figueroa, a native of Choctaw, Oklahoma, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM-41 Seahawks).
Figueroa graduated from Bishop McGuiness Catholic High School in 2016.

Figueroa joined the Navy three years ago. Today, Figueroa serves as a Naval Aviator.

“I joined the Navy because my family has a legacy of military service, with both my father and grandfather serving full careers in the Air Force,” said Figueroa. “I hadn’t considered joining myself until my older brother attended the Naval Academy. Through him, I learned about the career and education opportunities that the Navy had to offer and decided I wanted the chance to serve there too.”

The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Choctaw.

“Choctaw is a small town; somewhere between rural and suburban,” said Figueroa. “The people there are hard-working, honest, humble, and extremely generous. It costs me nothing to be kind and help others where I can, and I’d like to think those are qualities I’ve learned from growing up in Choctaw.”

According to Navy officials, members of HSM-41 Seahawks fly and maintain the MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopter, the Navy’s most advanced rotary wing maritime strike platform. The Navy MH-60R is able to perform many different missions. Some of the most common operations include strikes on maritime targets, submarine hunting and attack, electronic warfare, search and rescue, medical evacuations and supply support.

With 90% of global commerce traveling by sea and access to the internet relying on the security of undersea fiber optic cables, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity of the United States is directly linked to recruiting and retaining talented people from across the rich fabric of America.

Figueroa serves a Navy that operates far forward, around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation’s prosperity and security.

“We will earn and reinforce the trust and confidence of the American people every day,” said Adm. Lisa Franchetti, chief of naval operations. “Together we will deliver the Navy the nation needs.”

Figueroa has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.

“My proudest accomplishment in the Navy is earning my wings as a helicopter pilot,” said Figueroa. “Flight school challenged me in many new ways, but with great friends, peers, and leadership throughout, we made it.”

Figueroa can take pride in serving America through military service.

“Serving in the Navy means so much more to me now than when I initially joined,” said Figueroa. “Though I am still very early in my career, I have had the priviledge of working with some of the most dedicated and inspiring individuals I have met. I am so grateful to have the opportunity to serve my country, and even more so, to serve with such an amazing team.”

Figueroa is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.

“First and foremost, I would like to thank my parents for their outpouring of love and support throughout my entire life,” added Figueroa. “I’d also like to thank the staff from Bishop McGuinness who wrote letters of recommendation for me and those coaches who helped me become a better teammate and athlete. Their contributions are a large part of the reason I am here today, and I am very grateful. Finally, I have to thank my parish, Saint Philip Neri, for their continued support even now.”

“My first goal is to qualify as a helicopter pilot within the fleet replacement squadrons,” said Figueroa. “For the next eight years, I plan on using this to travel to as many places as I can. The best part of the Navy is working with all of these amazing people. As long as I continue to work with such amazing talent, I plan on staying in.”
By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Tristan Cookson, Navy Office of Community Outreach

story by Darl Devault, contributing editor

For the statewide free Oklahoma Veterans News Magazine to receive a Senate Citation of Recognition after just one year in print serves as powerful validation of its role in bridging the gap between state resources and the Veterans it serves.
Such recognition highlights the magazine’s value as a statewide communication
tool that unifies a community of over 300,000 Veterans.
Co-publishers Steve Eldridge and Veteran Steve Sibley worked together on
its creation for more than a year leading up to the publication’s first issue in May
2025.
This official validation of impact from State Senator Brenda Stanley (R-Midwest
City), who chairs the Senate Veterans and Military Affairs Committee, designates the
publication as a trusted source of information for the state’s military community.
This legislative commendation reinforces the magazine’s role as a “vital part of
the state’s identity,” officially acknowledging its mission to pay tribute to the service
and sacrifice of Oklahoma Veterans and their families.
All of this is because the magazine is attempting to help many Veterans who
are unaware of available benefits, such as sales tax exemptions. A recognized
statewide magazine acts as a critical partner in disseminating this essential
information and updates on benefits, services, and new laws, such as the PACT Act
and state-specific tax exemptions.
It also serves as a platform to raise awareness of Veterans-owned businesses
and encourage “patriotic Oklahomans” to support them.
The platform also promotes storytelling and community engagement. It helps
preserve the patriotic legacy by sharing stories of Veterans’ achievements. It
chronicles their sacrifice, fostering a sense of belonging and “collective pride”
across the state.
Its outreach for isolated Veterans continues to expand with over 600 distribution
points-including VFWs, American Legion posts, and VA clinics. This magazine
reaches Veterans who may not have easy access to digital information, partnering
with the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs (ODVA) to feature leadership
and highlight state-run programs and ceremonies.
The content of the document follows:
THE STATE OF OKLAHOMA
Citation of Recognition
EXPRESSING SUPPORT FOR THE OKLAHOMA VETERAN NEWS MAGAZINE;
COMMENDING ITS LEADERSHIP; AND DIRECTING DISTRIBUTION.
WHEREAS, Senator Brenda Stanley, Chair of the Senate Veterans and Military
Affairs Committee, proudly supports the mission of the Oklahoma Veteran News Magazine, the first statewide monthly free publication dedicated to serving Oklahoma’s veterans, active-duty service members, and their families; and
WHEREAS, the magazine marks one year in print, reflecting its continued commitment to
informing, connecting and honoring those who have taken the oath to defend the United States;
and
WHEREAS, Oklahoma is home to major installations, including Altus Air Force Base, Fort Sill, McAlester Army Ammunition Plant, Tinker Air Force Base, and Vance Air Force Base, which play a vital role in national defense and serve as key economic drivers; and
WHEREAS, the Oklahoma Veteran News Magazine strengthens the military community by
sharing important information, connecting veterans to resources, and promoting awareness, respect, and appreciation for their service; and
WHEREAS, the Oklahoma Senate recognizes the importance of ensuring veterans and their
families have access to timely, accurate information and honors the service and sacrifice of those who have defended our freedoms;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE OF THE 60TH OKLAHOMA
LEGISLATURE:
THAT the Oklahoma Senate expresses its support for the Oklahoma Veteran News Magazine
and its mission to serve Oklahoma’s military and veteran community, and THAT co-publishers Steve Eldridge and Veteran Steve Sibley are commended for exemplifying
the spirit of “The Oklahoma Standard” through their dedication to veterans’ affairs and community service; and
THAT a copy of this resolution be distributed to
Steve Eldridge and Steve Sibley.
Signed April 22, 2026: Senator Brenda Stanley
Senate District 42

Patricia Hocker is on a mission to give inspiration to Veterans and their families while at the Oklahoma City VA Medical Center, located at 921 NE 13th Street.

She is doing so via a rock garden that features painted rocks with inspirational messages.
“Four years ago, I became the chairman of the Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary Veterans committee. The Veteran’s committee is a national outreach for the Salvation Army,” she said. “When I went down to the VA Hospital, I thought it looked bleak and not very welcoming.

There was a small sign in an area surrounded by some bushes. It said, ”take a rock and leave a rock for inspiration.” One of the hospital staff came by when I was there. She told me that occupational therapy did this for a few years, but they were no longer doing it. I knew then that I had to do something about that.”

Hocker said she asked three of her friends, Teta Turner, Shirley Brummett, and Becky Evans to help her.

“Shirley and Becky are artists and Teta and I do the best we can. I also invited ladies from our Salvation Women’s Auxiliary to help with the painting. My Bible study group also paints,” Hocker said. “I supply all the paint, rocks, and ideas for painting. I’m always happy when someone walks up to me with a box of painted rocks. We now have some “rock fairies” who leave painted rocks.”

Hocker said last year they purchased an attractive metal sign to go in the garden.
“I try to get down every 2 to 3 weeks to “plant” new rocks. When I get there, the garden is bare. It’s a challenge to keep the garden planted,” she said. “It has become a mission for Shirley, Becky, and I. It is a blessing for us as we bless our Veterans and their families. Whenever we are down there, we hear beautiful stories about what the rocks mean to that person or a loved one.”

Turner and her friends all previously worked together at Windsor Hills Elementary School in the Putnam City school district.

“We all worked in and we ended our careers at Windsor Hills,” she said.
Turner said she got involved with the VA Rock Garden after a close friend passed away while in the Oklahoma City VA Hospital.

“What frankly got me involved directly in it is two years ago on New Year’s Day we had a very close friend who died at the Veterans Hospital, and that’s when I began to get inspired to do something for the people who come down there,” she said.

“The garden was already going, but I had gone down to see him. And then when he passed away, of course, I wanted to do my part. And the rocks are not just for the Vets but for their families too.”
Turner said being a part of the VA rock garden has been a blessing.

“It became such a joyful mission that we’ve carried it on now for at least two years. And we can hardly keep rocks in there. They disappear so quickly. They give people a lot of joy,” she said. • by Van Mitchell, staff writer