My name is Jill Stephenson.

I moved to the Tulsa area earlier this year with my father. We are from Minnesota, however I spent the last four years in NW Arkansas and have previously lived in several other states. My only child honorably served in the military for three years before making the ultimate sacrifice to defend our beautiful America in 2009 at the age of twenty-one. Although I am not from Oklahoma and my son is counted as a MN fallen soldier, I will be sharing stories of Oklahoma/greater Tulsa area fallen military. My first offering will be about my son. Going forward I will focus on local families by sharing stories of courage, patriotism and selflessness. Above all, I want you to get to know the faces and the families of those who have sacrificed so much in the name of freedom.

My son Benjamin Kopp joined the military and became an Army Ranger out of respect and admiration for his great grandfather, a WWII veteran, and to avenge the events of September 11th. After 9/11, at the age of 13, Ben vowed to serve his country with determination and pride. He arrived at Ft. Benning, Georgia exactly one month after his high school graduation. His tenacity made him an accomplished Army Ranger only seven months later. The daily challenges of being an elite Army Ranger do not come easy, but quickly turns boys into men. Ben was no exception. On his first visit home, the change in him was noticeable and it was apparent he was doing exactly what he was meant to do.

Ben maintained his childhood friendships from his hometown of Rosemount, MN, but also established new friendships within his fellow brothers of the the 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment. He became known for his fearless attitude, crooked grin and his charm with the ladies. Ben had an infectious personality and all would agree he was a best friend to many. Ben served two tours in Iraq before his third tour in Afghanistan in May of 2009.

On July 10th, during a firefight with the Taliban, he saved the lives of six of his fellow Rangers before being shot in the leg. Unfortunately, recovery from the trauma his body endured from the gunshot wound and following surgery would prove to be too much. Ben Kopp died on July 18, 2009 at Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, DC. Prior to his death, Ben ensured his living will stated that upon his death, all of his organs, bone, skin and tissue be donated. His donations saved or enhanced the lives of 60 people. His heart lived on and continued to beat for fifteen years and seven months in a woman from Illinois who passed away from health issues unrelated to her heart earlier this year. Ben’s strong ranger heart stayed with her until the objective was complete.

He distinguished himself with the Army Achievement Medal with two awards, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, Parachutist Badge and the Ranger Tab. Upon his death Ben was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for Valor, the Meritorious Service Medal and the Purple Heart. He was also posthumously promoted to Corporal. Per his wishes, he is laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery in the famed section 60, where he is surrounded by heroes from all conflicts dating back more than one hundred fifty years.

The pride I have been gifted in being Ben’s mother is something that has continued to grow. His positive influence and inspiration to all who knew him and many who came to know him after he died, remains alive and well. Among many admirable traits he possessed, Ben was also a champion of the underdog, an aspiring leader, humorous, driven, convicted, courageous and selfless. Saving the lives of his brothers on the battlefield and then of strangers upon his death, were true testaments to the kind of person he was.

He is sorely missed to this day by all who know and love him. In life and in death, Corporal Benjamin S. Kopp was and still is a hero. I couldn’t have asked for a better son. He was my best friend. We will always be the land of the free because of the brave.•
story by Jill Stephenson

Greetings, I’m SFC (Ret) George Shafer. I served as Chaplain at the American Legion in Guthrie, Oklahoma while earning my M.Div. I’m now the Digital Media Pastor for Generations Church in Guthrie. It’s a great Christian community.
As Veterans, we share an ethos that guide our decisions, ethics and moral compass. Concepts like timeliness, integrity, courage and selfless service. We learned the value of hard work and its positive impact on our organization, mission and fellow service members. But we often struggle with balancing these proactive values with the concept rest. When we take time to stop and rest, it can be followed by underlying guilt, even shame. We are culturally driven to do the work, to grind it out, no time off, even at the expense of neglecting those we care about. So, how do we avoid these consequences?
There is an amazing alignment between the science of health and wellness and the teachings in scripture concerning the need for rest, it’s called Sabbath. The same root word as sabbatical. The Sabbath is a staple of the Judeo-Christian culture, yet we witness daily the results of ignoring its benefits. Exhaustion, worry, anxiety, feeling overwhelmed, quick tempers, damaged relationships, work burnout, addictions and others are symptoms of our overworked and under rested lifestyles.
We were created in God’s image and likeness. We were made to rest. We were made to stop. We were made to meditate on God. Just reading those three sentences may make you cringe or laugh on the inside. “George, you don’t know my schedule.” “You don’t understand the pressure I’m under.” “I need to feed my family.” All valid points, but all too often these people arrive at jobs, even to church, burnt out, full of contempt and bitterness, going through the motions. Now more than ever we need to seek peace, joy, and contentment. These are three fantastic byproducts of the Sabbath, if we’ll only embrace and practice it!
Yes, adhering to the Sabbath is difficult. Attempting your first 24-hour Sabbath will likely be a rehearsal of all that you forgot to do! But it is through this challenge that the fruits of the Sabbath are revealed. Honoring the Sabbath requires you to schedule around it. Early Hebrews understood the Sabbath to begin once the third star is seen in the night sky on Friday evening and concludes when the third star is observed on Saturday evening. It shows us that the Sabbath is not ritualistic as it varies from week to week when the stars are visible to us.
For five years I have intentionally practiced my Sabbath. It has helped me find a balance that has created a closer, more intimate relationship with God and my family. I am healthier, clear-headed, more patient, and more flexible with change. The Sabbath has given me peace, joy, and contentment, and has been an integral part of refreshing my mind, body, soul, and emotions.
Communication has been key to sustaining my Sabbath. In-depth and consistent communication with my wife, my family, my job, and my friends has helped create the space necessary to observe the Sabbath. It also gave unspoken permission for the people around me to observe the Sabbath in their own time.
Take time to focus on your own Sabbath, find rest for your soul. Christ shares this promise: Matt 11:28, Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. Rev. George F. Shafer, SFC (Ret.), M.Div., B.S., Chaplain (TAL Post 58)

1 November, 8-11am, Monthly Breakfast. Open to the public. $8 adults, $4 kids. All you can eat!

We will have the Mobile Blood guys in the parking lot taking blood donations too! Donors sign up here — https://www.yourbloodinstitute.org/donor/schedules/drive_schedule/676309?fbclid=IwdGRjcANl3SFleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETF0UGVJeW04eGlPczRONEl1AR5OvMICCQ7B4duLetqYRejkyiol77J01NMT2htYM6PVzQY3C-8UKp5CKnqOvA_aem_ZANfQliC2Pz3KplXPwB4Kw

Post 12 will be handing out poppies ahead of Veterans Day weekend at the SPARK Creative Lab performances of Ditty Bop. Friday November 7 at 7 pm, Saturday, November 8 at 7 pm, and Sunday, November 9 at 2 pm. Location is the Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center, 11 NW 11th St., OKC, OK 73103. Discounted Veteran tickets are on sale now for $12.50.

More info at this link:Oklahoma Contemporary https://share.google/lJYi0udpX5dB6S9Na

Post 12 will be out in the community representing at our usually places during Veterans Day weekend. We will be taking donations, visiting with folks and handing out poppies. Nov 8th-9th-10th. Hours 9am-5pm. Stop by our tables at either store and say hello. We love chatting with Veterans. Homeland Store 7001 NW 122nd St, Oklahoma City, OK 73142. Or Homeland Store 9225 N May Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73120. This is always our biggest fundraiser. We appreciate our Homeland store partners that allow us to do this every year! Thank you Homeland!

Monthly Spaghetti Dinner is scheduled for Friday, 21 November, 6pm-8pm. Open to the public. $10 adults, $8 kids. All you can eat. The table is set. All that is missing is you. Won’t you join us? Location: 6101 NW50th St., Warr Acres, OK 73122

Every Thursday — Free hot coffee, donuts and conversations! Open to the public. 7am-10am. Our “Coffee with a Veteran” program is world class and so are our attendees. (We might be a little bit bias.) Stop by and see for yourself. Sitting with a Veteran is different.

Rent our Post for your next event. We have the tables and chairs. Kitchen facility and a bar. We have everything you need to make your next event epic. Our stage is somewhat small but our willingness is mighty! Email: post12adjutantlegion@gmail.com or call/text 405-922-2619 for availability and reasonable rates! We still have holiday dates open!

Check us out on FB & the OK veterans calendar.

https://www.facebook.com/share/12EWiGJMbXf/

Craft Fair & Cow Patty Bingo Event 10/25/2025 Warr Acres, , Post 12 Inside and Outside – Fundraising Event | Oklahoma Veterans Calendar https://share.google/e1aivAknFaJPIXl4r

The American Legion Waggoner-Trimble Post 12 of the Department of Oklahoma has established Veterans for Country and Service, Inc., a federally recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization created to strengthen and expand the Post’s mission of serving veterans, families, and the community through charitable giving and partnership programs.

This new charitable foundation enables Post 12 to receive tax-deductible donations and grants that directly support initiatives rooted in The American Legion’s Four Pillars Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation, National Security, Americanism, and Children & Youth.

“The creation of Veterans for Country and Service, Inc. is a major milestone for Post 12 and the Bethany-Warr Acres community,” said Brett Martin current Finance Officer of Post 12. “It allows us to expand our outreach and ensure every donated dollar helps where it’s needed most whether it’s aiding veterans in crisis, supporting youth leadership through Oklahoma Boys State, a program of the Oklahoma American Legion and Girls State, a program of American Legion Auxiliary, Scouting America, or strengthening our neighborhoods through fellowship and service. This embodies the spirit of For God, Country, and Service.”

Through Veterans for Country and Service, Inc., Post 12 will focus on initiatives that include:
• Assisting veterans and families in need through its community food pantry and emergency relief efforts.
• Hosting regular American Red Cross blood drives that give back directly to the community.
• Supporting youth development through Boys State, Girls State, and partnerships with the Boy Scouts of America.
• Coordinating the annual Flag Retirement Ceremony in conjunction with Robert Keyes, honoring our nation’s symbol with dignity and respect.
• Promoting patriotism, civic responsibility, and unity through year-round community programs.
Veterans for Country and Service, Inc. will serve as the charitable arm of American Legion Post 12, ensuring transparency, sustainability, and expanded capacity to serve the needs of local veterans and citizens for generations to come.

The American Legion Waggoner-Trimble Post 12, located in Bethany-Warr Acres, is part of the Department of Oklahoma’s American Legion Family. Post 12 is dedicated to serving veterans, military families, and the broader community through programs inspired by the Four Pillars of The American Legion: Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation, National Security, Americanism, and Children & Youth.
Martin said the new 501(c)(3) will help Post 12 better reach their goal of sending more students to Boys State and Girls State.

“Last year we sent 22 boys and 11 girls,” he said. “Our goal this year is to send 30+ boys and 15+ girls. Each boy we send to Boys State costs $350 and the girls we send to Girls State cost $335 each. It adds up quickly.”

Martin said Post 12 also uses social media to highlight their programs and needs.

“We got our first donation check and the other day off the social media post I put up from the Mcanally Foundation, LLC.,” he said. “They want to sponsor one girl and one boy at Boys and Girls State. You must be careful how you use it, but social media works.”

For more information about Post 12 and its services call (405) 818-1607. • story by Van Mitchell, staff writer

People of all faiths love living at Saint Ann Assisted and Independent Living and say it is one of the nation’s top senior living communities. Concierge services enhance the fun and friendly culture and the home’s focus on providing top-notch amenities and lifestyle.

Do you ever wish you had a personal assistant or someone on hand for certain situations? Saint Ann Assisted and Independent Living provides a 24-hour Concierge for residents’ convenience. Concierge Director, Jessica Ledford, embodies the heart of Saint Ann’s mission to ease and enrich residents’ lives. Deeply committed to providing exemplary service, Jessica loves being there for people. Whether it’s a postage stamp, a finicky phone, or something more serious, Jessica is quick to offer help with a smile and a hug. As well as being a devoted wife, mother, and avid gardener, Jessica is a bona fide sports fanatic. She gets everyone fired up for game days. Her competitive spirit keeps things amusing as she arranges trivia contests, sports brackets, and contests for everyone to enjoy.

Saint Ann Assisted and Independent Living is a ministry owned and operated by the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City. People of all faiths love living there and say it is one of the nation’s top senior living communities. Concierge services enhance the fun and friendly culture and the home’s focus on providing top-notch amenities and lifestyle.

The Concierge desk is open around the clock to assist people in a myriad of ways. It functions as an information hub and is staffed by people who go the extra mile to simplify residents’ lives. From notary services and making copies, to opening jars or helping navigate online portals, Saint Ann’s Concierge is devoted to making residents’ lives easier. The Concierge department coordinates transportation to doctor appointments two days per week. It also manages daily deliveries from all types of stores, florists, pharmacies, and other vendors. The Concierge orders room service meals and reserves guest apartments and event areas for private parties. At its core, having a Concierge available day and night helps give residents peace of mind because they know someone is a phone call or short walk away. In assisted living, staff are also available to assist residents with personal care, medication administration, and individualized services.

Jessica Ledford manages the Concierge department. Trained as a massage therapist, Jessica says that, “Human touch is so important. Feeling a gentle hand on the shoulder of the warmth of a hug can be so comforting. Such a simple gesture lets residents know they are cared for.” Jessica is a true confidant-a sympathetic ear and a comforting shoulder, willing to take time to offer reassurance, kind conversations, or a heartfelt prayer. Jessica builds a personal relationship with residents as well as their families. Clarita, an independent living resident said, “Jessica is such a delight! Everyone in my family knows her, including my brother in Germany!”

After normal business hours, the Concierge staff also help with maintenance and housekeeping tasks like trash collection, replacing batteries, and resetting TV’s. Thanks to the Concierge, aromas of fresh coffee and cappuccino fill the “Beverage Bar” daily where people linger to laugh and chat.

At times, the Concierge Department is on the frontline in identifying potential health issues with independent living residents. Daily interaction with residents sometimes leads to noticing a change in cognition, mobility, hygiene, or behavior. If something seems off, the Concierge can help alert families. This heads-up often expedites the medical attention, medication adjustment, or in-home care that residents need. The Concierge makes “wellness checks” on independent living resident when requested by others or it is noticed they are conspicuously absent from events or dining. If a resident is unwell, the Concierge will order a complimentary room service meal delivered to their apartment.

Families say knowing the Concierge is on-site and available for their loved one is a tremendous comfort and asset. The Concierge department conducts security checks of the building, monitors cameras, and tracks weather events. They are trained in emergency preparedness protocols like putting out first floor hallway seating during tornado watches.

Saint Ann Assisted and Independent Living has an outstanding life-enrichment program with numerous activities, entertainers, and things to do. Thanks to the evening and weekend Concierge, residents enjoy even more socials such as Thunder watch parties, weekend chair-volleyball practice, movies, Monday night hymn sing, and Friday night bingo.

Independent living resident, Michelle Tuttle, said, “Living at Saint Ann is like living on a cruise ship!” With housekeeping, maintenance, dining, and the Concierge on call, I don’t need to worry about anything. I can just relax and have fun.” Residents agree, Saint Ann’s Concierge Department is a blessing and a mainstay to Oklahoma City’s premier Senior Living Community.

Saint Ann Assisted and Independent Living is located at 7501 West Britton Road in Oklahoma City between Council and Rockwell. Call Lisa or Jessica at (405) 721-0740 for a personal tour to see all Saint Ann has to offer. • story by Van Mitchell, staff writer

Oklahoma joins the nation in honoring the U.S. Navy’s proud heritage at a ball rich with tradition and camaraderie.

Men and women in Dinner Dress Blues. Dresses and gowns. Fine dining, toasts, speeches – and best of all, camaraderie. These hallmarks of naval tradition were on full display at the 250th United States Navy Birthday Ball at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum on October 4. Jointly organized by the Navy League Oklahoma City Council, Strategic Communications Wing One (SCW-1), and the Midwest City Chamber of Commerce, it was a fine gala attended by 464 people.

During the social hour, active duty sailors reflected on what makes the Navy a strong service. Lieutenant Commander Paul Mobley said, “Some of our youngest sailors have to live and work in some of the most hazardous environments, like ships, and still manage to operate with exceptional discipline.” Petty Officer First Class Johnson Romero, with Fleet Air Reconnaissance Squadron 3, added that success depends on “keeping people stable – sailors and their families – so they can concentrate on their mission.” Both offered clear examples why the U.S. Navy remains a first-rate force.

After presenting the Colors, playing the National Anthem (by harpist Maylynn Heykens), and paying respects to the POW/MIA Table, guests watched as the Navy’s birthday cake was cut. Michael Koiber, President of the Navy League, provided opening remarks. He read a proclamation from Senator James Lankford: “For 250 years, the men and women of the United States Navy have been at the forefront of our nation’s defense. Thank you for defending freedom and protecting prosperity.”

Captain David Gardner, Commodore of SCW-1, recognized distinguished visitors and thanked many people for organizing and holding the celebration, including Shaina Bennett, President of the Midwest City Chamber of Commerce, Navy League, and SCW-1 protocol team members Bob Holland, Jeff Bottoms, and MA1’s Lauren Green and Lisa Kolivoski.

Gardner introduced the night’s keynote speaker, Rear Admiral Gregory Slavonic, who retired from the U.S. Navy Reserve after a 34-year career (promoting from E-1 to O-8). His distinguished career included commanding four units and serving in combat deployments to Vietnam, First Gulf War, and Operation Iraqi Freedom. His later became Acting Under Secretary and the 18th Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Manpower and Reserve Affairs.

Slavonic’s interesting speech highlighted the Navy’s global mission and Oklahoma’s lasting contributions to it. To illustrate how closely nations are tied to the World Ocean, he explained the “70-80-90 rule.” “First, 70% of the Earth is covered by water. Second, about 80% of the world’s population lives within a hundred miles of the world’s global commons…” and 147 of 200 nations border an ocean or a sea, and third, “more than 90% of international trade…travels via the sea…” and 90% of global internet traffic passes through undersea fiber optic cables.

After mentioning China and Russia as challenges, he stated, “With some 330,000 active duty members, nearly 60,000 reservists and nearly a quarter million civilians, today’s Navy has nearly 300 ships and thousands of aircraft on any given day” to deter and if needed, defeat enemy aggression.

The Admiral paid tribute to Oklahoma’s naval legacy. “Foremost, of course, is the USS Oklahoma battleship (BBB 37), which was sunk by the Japanese Navy during the attack on Pearl Harbor with the loss of 429 sailors and Marines.” He added, “There are about 30 ships which have names of cities, counties here in Oklahoma and…we’ve got about four ships, USNS ships that bear tribal names.” The USS Oklahoma (SSN 802), a Virginia Class nuclear powered attack submarine, will be christened in the spring of 2026.

Finally, Slavonic highlighted Oklahomans who provided careers and lives to the Navy. Included were Admiral Mark Mitchner who “commanded the Hornet in the Battle of Midway”; U.S. Marine Corps Major Kenneth Bailey, “a Pawnee, who was killed in action…while leading an attack on the island of Guadalcanal…”; Commander Ernest Evans of the USS Johnston, hero of the Battle of Leyte Gulf; Admiral Joseph Jocko Clark, who commanded aircraft carriers; and Admiral John Kirkpatrick.

To close the event, Kloiber returned to the stage and thanked Admiral Slavonic and corporate sponsors Northrop Grumman, Lockheed Martin and others for a successful night. Guests received a distinctive, three-inch commemorative challenge coin. Toasts to each military service were made given and then couples danced to music.

Kloiber was pleased with the night’s success, citing the size of the crowd, good food and phenomenal event center.

A toast to you, U.S. Navy-for 250 years of defending freedom and sailing strong.

Click the link for more information about SCW-1 or go online to Strategic Communications Wing 1. or use your camera to scan the code below • Story by Retired Lt. Col. Richard Stephens, Jr., USAFER. See Rich Travel Niche

Although far fewer WWII veterans are alive or able to attend ceremonies, eight of our Greatest Generation celebrated the 80^th anniversary of the end of WWII at the Claremore Veterans Home auditorium on Sept. 2.  Scott Hannaford, owner of Buffalo Challenge Coins, planned the successful event around giving a “Ruptured Duck” challenge coin to each veteran.

Hannaford addressed the eight veterans. “This celebration will be but a small gesture of which words can never fully convey our gratitude of their service.” After saying a prayer, presenting the Colors, singing the National Anthem and America the Beautiful (with gusto by Aubrey Bartmann) and paying respects to the POW/MIA Table, distinguished guests were introduced.  Oklahoma State Sen. Ally Seifried, District Two-Republican, Admiral Jay Bynum, Executive Director of Oklahoma Department of Veteran Affairs (ODVA) and Deborah Wimpey, Mayor of Broken Arrow were recognized.

What is a Ruptured Duck?

Hannaford explained, “In World War II, there was a clothing shortage…The United States Armed Forces came up with the Honorable Service Insignia, which depicted an eagle inside of a wreath. It was issued as a cloth patch or a lapel pin…It also allowed this discharged hero to wear their uniform for 30 days in order to have some time to obtain civilian clothing…Although to many, it looked more like a duck than an eagle…there was a common saying when someone was going quickly (leaving the service), they took off like a ruptured duck.” This brought chuckles from the 60 attendees.

Proclamation and Challenge Coins

Seyfried, whose district includes Claremore, read a special proclamation from the Oklahoma Governor. After reading five “Whereas” clauses, she ended with “it is fitting that the state of Oklahoma dedicates this day (Sep 2) as ‘Oklahoma Ruptured Duck Day’ in tribute to the iconic emblem worn by discharged service members and as a lasting acknowledgement of the legacy and heroism of our World War II veterans…”’

Hannaford, Wimpee and Donna Lee, with the VFW Post 577 Auxiliary, met each veteran where they were seated, thanked them for their service and gave them a Ruptured Duck challenge coin and a print of a patriotic eagle made by Air Force veteran Gil Cornett. Recipients Eugene Bargus, John Cockrum, Jerry Crockett, Robert Everitt, Joseph Menninger, William Mauch, Preston Wheaton and Billy Ray Young looked pleased.

Keynote Speaker

Josh Starks retired from the 45th Infantry Division, Oklahoma National Guard, after deploying to Afghanistan in 2011 and 2012.  He moved the audience with two stories of WWII veterans he knew. Space only allows for one story.

Starks said that when he was a child and visited his grandmother’s house on her farm, there was a smaller farmhouse where her brother, Paul, lived. “She would bring bread, some ham, some cheese, some water, and I never really understood it. I can think in the 15 years of going…out there, that man probably said five words to me that I understood.”

Paul served in WWII. “He was in the invasion, went all the way to Berlin, and when he came back, he was changed forever. When he came back, he couldn’t function, he couldn’t deal with life, he couldn’t deal with people. He had lost too many people along the way and had seen too many things that I found out much later.”

After Starks’ two-year tour in Afghanistan, he visited his grandmother and many family members came. Paul, in his 90s, lived in the main house then. “My uncle Paul… sprung up from his chair like he was 18 years old, ran to me, gave me a hug, and started telling me every story he had. He told me about his friends that he knew…” Starks grandmother, who had never cried before, wept uncontrollably.

Starks finished with the following. “So, when we talk about the cost of war, it runs deep. It’s not just the individuals that served, it’s the families that have taken care of those individuals that have served for their entire lives.”

During the event’s conclusion, each military service’s song was played – WWII veterans standing, Bartmann sang a moving “God Bless America,” and thanks were given to the Claremore Veterans Center, ODVA, Mission Barbecue for lunch, ARC Document Solutions, and to Keith Meyer and Donna Lee.

Note. This writer confirmed this was the only public event in Oklahoma celebrating the 80^th anniversary of WWII. The World War II Museum estimates 462 WWII Oklahoma veterans are alive in 2025. Robert Lige Everitt died on September 22, 2025. Bison Challenge Coins, https://bisonchallengecoins.com/#

• Story by Retired Lt. Col. Richard Stephens, Jr., USAFER. See Rich Travel Niche

Lt. Colonel (Ret.) Bill Williams, 99, was born to fly.

Williams, a resident at Album Quail Springs, a retirement community located at 14201 N. Kentucky Avenue in Oklahoma City, will turn 100 on Dec. 21. A party will be held at noon on Dec. 22 at Album Quail Springs to honor him.

He is a Veteran of World War II and the Korean War.

“The war (World War II) was slowing down, and so my folks let me sign up for the Army. And I signed up for the aviator cadet program, and they called me in July of 1944, and went through the training,” Williams said.

Williams, a North Carolina native, was stationed in Schofield, South Carolina, and later in Montgomery, Alabama awaiting an opening in the aviator cadet program.
Williams, who lived in Alabama as a child, worked weekends at his grandfather’s farm near Montgomery.

“Every weekend I was up on the farm with my uncle on my grandfather’s farm,” he said.
After being discharged from the Army, Williams attended the University of North Carolina for three years, before a fellow student passed on information that changed the trajectory of his life.

“One morning as I was leaving the barracks to go to class, a friend of mine passed by,” Williams said. “He said, “He said, ‘Hey, I understand the Air Force is recruiting cadets again.’ I said, ‘Good.’ I skipped to class and went to a recruiter in Chapel Hill.”

The Korean War started on June 25, 1950, and ended on July 27, 1953, after the signing of an armistice agreeing that the country would remain divided.

At the end of the Second World War, Korea – which had formerly been occupied by the Japanese – was divided along the 38th parallel. This was an internal border between North and South Korea based on a circle of latitude.

North Korea, supported by the Soviet Union, invaded the south on June 25, 1950, which was supported by the United States.

The three-year war was exceptionally bloody and led to the deaths of 3 million people and tens of thousands of casualties.

Williams was stationed in Okinawa, Japan when the war broke out.

Six weeks later, he found himself flying out of Japan on his first mission against the enemy in Korea.

He flew his jet out of Kimpo Air Base a few miles west of Seoul, but the communist Koreans and Chinese soon put a stop to United States flights out of Kimpo.

In the early winter of 1950, the communists launched an offensive, which nearly pushed the United Nations fighting forces into the ocean.

“The enemy was six miles away from Kimpo. We tried to strafe the advanced troops with rockets and machine guns, but they just overpowered us,” Williams said previously in a newspaper interview. “We evacuated and flew to Japan. They ran us out.”

Williams was with the 16th Fighter Interceptor Squadron of the 51st Fighter Wing. It was the squadron’s primary job to win ground support and go behind the lines and stick and wreck anything that looked military.

Williams was later detached from the Air Force and was sent back to Korea with an infantry division at the front. The Army needed a combat expert pilot to direct fire pilots from the ground to nearby enemy installations.

“I was attached to an artillery group,” he said. “When our ground guns got out of range of targets, I’d call out our fighters, and they’d take over.”

A month later, he returned to his old outfit.

Williams holds the Distinguished Flying Cross for action near the Yalu River when the Chinese started pushing the U.S. out of North Korea.

“The Chinese caught a large convoy of ours in retreat,” he said. “The vehicles were surrounded and the battle probably killed thousands of Americans. We went up there on a flight of two planes, and saw 200, 300 American trucks on the side of the road with no signs of life.”
Williams said he did see the enemy.

“I shot two men near a Howitzer and went from there to another Korean town and found more trucks cut off from the route of retreat,” he said. “We left there and found a couple of hundred Chinese troops on the road. We strafed them and probably killed 50. Later, the two planes returned to the entrapped vehicle and destroyed as many as we could to keep them from falling into the communist hands.”

In the spring of 1951, Williams returned to the US and was stationed in Nevada and Kansas. He has 100 flying missions to his credit over enemy territory in the Korean War.

Williams summed up his thoughts on the Korean War in his newspaper interview.

“You can’t let the communists have everything. The war was justified. President Truman did the right thing,” he said. •
story and photos by Van Mitchell, staff writer

Nonprofit Socks for Seniors Oklahoma has been delivering more than 500 donated Christmas gift bags to veterans in the Norman Veterans Center who might not otherwise receive a gift since 2017.

Starting in 2013, founder Sue McMillan and a friend delivered 127 pairs of socks to three local nursing homes during their first holiday season, with the intention of making the recipients feel remembered and special. Staff informed them that for some residents, this would likely be the only Christmas gift they would receive.

This impactful experience, where the recipients’ joy was palpable, inspired McMillan to create the organization and expand the number of recipients. The heartfelt response from the recipients so touched McMillan that she has used her business administration background to solicit sponsors year-round, and the number of volunteers has grown significantly.

“This nonprofit’s mission became my passion,” McMillan said in an interview while working their booth at the Second Half Expo in October. “This has grown so much we must thank Morningstar Storage and Gate Keepers Storage for their generous donation of space. It may sound strange to point this out in an interview, but they allow us to store inventory and to work on the bags year-round.”

This program, which focuses on seniors and veterans who have limited family interaction and are at risk of feeling forgotten during the holidays, quickly evolved into a well-received 501 (c) (3) nonprofit. Many merchant sponsors in Oklahoma City have donated space in their stores, allowing customers to make direct donations.

Volunteers assemble holiday gift bags filled with personal care items. The organization relies on donations from the community and now many local businesses to fill the bags. Many community business sponsors recognize that by providing a simple, thoughtful gift, Socks for Seniors OK brings joy, comfort, and a reminder to seniors and veterans that they are valued members of the community.

Now, bags contain essential and comforting items, such as socks (especially diabetic socks), gloves, scarves, toiletries, lap blankets, and activity books. They put a special “Thank You For Your Service” card and an American flag in each of the veterans’ packages.
Socks for Seniors OK began serving veterans in the Norman Veterans Center to expand its mission beyond underserved nursing homes to serve military veterans. Delivering gifts to the center’s Alzheimer’s unit shows their commitment to helping veterans with specific needs. In 2024, the organization delivered gifts to 502 residents, accounting for over 20 percent of its total holiday gift packages.

Focusing on facilities with residents who have limited interaction with family, this is especially important for veterans who may have outlived family members or live far from relatives.

Gifts for the Norman Veterans Center, like those for all other veterans centers, are assembled and delivered by volunteers in December, creating a direct connection between the community and the veterans who have served.

Readers can volunteer or donate to Socks for Seniors OK by contributing their time, mailing monetary gifts or gift cards, or donating specific items from their wish list. The best time to volunteer is in November, but the organization accepts donations year-round.

Socks for Seniors OK relies on volunteers for many tasks throughout the year. To get started, readers can contact the organization directly through their website to express their interest.

Volunteers are needed year-round to assist in preparing items for the gift bags, including pairing socks, sorting donations, and delivering donation baskets to local businesses. Your help is crucial to our ongoing mission.

The busiest time for volunteers is the week after Thanksgiving and the first week of December, when the gift bags are assembled and delivered to local nursing homes and assisted living facilities.

Financial donations enable the organization to purchase items in bulk, often at more favorable prices. These items are then used to fill the veterans’ gift bags. Readers can mail a check or gift card to Socks for Seniors, OK, 3240 W Britton Road, Ste 103, Oklahoma City, OK 73120.
Their website provides a PayPal account for online donations. They need donations of new socks, particularly diabetic socks. Toiletries (small-sized) such as hand lotion, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, lip balm, and deodorant are accepted.

They solicit comfort items such as gloves, scarves, caps, and lap blankets, as well as puzzle books, playing cards, and small notebooks and pens.
For readers’ shopping convenience, they can find the organization’s current gift list on Amazon by searching for “Socks for Seniors OK”. The best way to coordinate dropping off a large donation is to contact the organization via email at socksforseniorsok@coxinet.net to ensure someone is available to receive it.

Local businesses can participate by donating directly, displaying donation baskets, or sponsoring an employee donation drive.
For info on donating or volunteering, visit www.socksforseniorsok.org or scan the QR CODE below. •
story and photos by Darl DeVault, contributing editor

More changes are coming for the VA Oklahoma City Healthcare System as it strives to meet the demands of a growing Veterans population in Oklahoma.
The latest was the opening of a new location in for the Women’s Health Clinic and specialty care clinics which are relocating from the VA Medical Center.
The North Portland VA Clinic will consist of two separate buildings and will cover a total of 25,604 square feet, said Wade Vlosich, Director of the Oklahoma City HealthCare System. The facilities will employ 75 staff members.
Building 5, located at 3625 NW 56th Street, will house the Women’s Health Clinic, Imaging, and Lab services. This relocation will provide the women’s Veteran population with a facility outside of the VA Medical Center.
This move will offer an environment for female Veterans who may feel uncomfortable using the medical center due to past trauma.
Building 3, located at 3613 NW 56th Street, will house Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Chiropractic, Acupuncture, Orthopedics, Podiatry, Urology, Optometry, Ophthalmology, and the Optical Shop.
“We will also be opening a mega clinic in Yukon,” Vlosich said. “We will be having a new hospital in Norman, so it will be a substance abuse treatment facility and a nursing home unit.”
Vlosich said rural America is needing more healthcare options including nursing home beds.
“What’s happened in the state of Oklahoma as rural America starts to see some collapse in healthcare, we’re losing nursing homes,” he said. “The VA does not have in the state of Oklahoma enough nursing home beds for veterans. We have been talking to the ODVA, and what we are looking at is a partnership because they have some unused beds. We are talking about making a share agreement where we will set up VA staff nursing homes in ODVA space because they are not able to fill that. And it meets the needs of both sides. We are looking at a partnership in Norman to expand nursing home beds there and in Sulfur and Ardmore. The VA is opening a new clinic in Stillwater.
Vlosich said the VA had a market assessment done for veteran needs and services in Oklahoma City and the rest of the state for potential future expansion.
“They did a market assessment, and they looked at all the workload for Oklahoma and how it compared to other states also growing in veteran population.
“They talked to us that if the growth in the city/state occurs, they’re expecting that we’ll need a clinic in Guthrie and Duncan in the near future,” he said.