Pete Reed, former director of the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs, was tasked by his close friend, the late Gov. George Nigh, to work with the Force 50 Foundation to help bring the Native American Warrior Project to fruition.

Pete Reed, former director of the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs, right, and Bill Anoatubby, Governor of the Chickasaw Nation, are working to help make the Native American Warrior Project in Oklahoma City a reality.Reed, who began his career in public service at age 25 and became director of the Department of Veterans Affairs at 29, has been working with the Native American Warrior Project to establish a monument recognizing Native Americans’ contributions in the U.S. military.

In August, Reed kicked off a statewide tour to honor Native American veterans and raise funds for a new monument at the state Capitol in Oklahoma City.
The tour, dubbed the “Season of the Warrior Campaign,” will visit 100 communities across Oklahoma in under 100 days.

Reed and his team plan to meet local leaders, visit community landmarks, and engage with newspapers to raise awareness for the project.

“He (Nigh) asked me to pursue with the Force 50 Foundation to visit all 77 counties,” Reed said. “Our goal is to raise $2.5 million from 100,000 Oklahomans at $25 each. That’s one quarter of 1% of our state, and we believe there are 100,000 Oklahomans at $25.”

The Force 50 Foundation, headquartered in Norman, is dedicated to safeguarding the well-being of Veterans by enhancing their access to essential healthcare, mental health support, and transportation services. Through strategic collaboration with an extensive network of partners, they strive to empower Veterans with the resources and support they need to thrive.

The Native American Warrior Monument arch rendering is shown at the state capital in Oklahoma City.Nigh, a special advisor to Force 50, penned a letter to Oklahomans to support the Native American Warrior Project.

“As someone that believes in the State of Oklahoma and supports all Oklahoma veterans, I would like to ask your participation in the Native American Warrior Project,” he wrote. “This is a Special Recognition Vision of the Force 50 Foundation, a non-profit organization committed to serving the healthcare needs of all Oklahoma Veterans.”

Nigh continued, “This project promotes the dedication of a First American Warrior monument at the newly established Oklahoma Veterans Memorial Park on the southside of the State Capitol. We are asking all Oklahomans to support this project. Our success depends on you and the many good Oklahomans you know. Please help us spread the word within your community and assist us in our fundraising efforts to honor the heritage and military history of these special Oklahomans!”

The project has garnered support from prominent figures including former University of Oklahoma football coach Barry Switzer.

Reed also highlighted the creation of the Oklahoma Veterans Memorial Park at the state Capitol, which will feature the 45th Infantry Arch as its centerpiece. He said the Native American Warrior Monument will be the first of its kind in the nation and will honor the state’s diverse military history.

Native Americans have served in every major military conflict since the Revolutionary War. In the 20th century, more than 12,000 Native Americans served in World War I, and 10,000 Native women joined the Red Cross.

During World War II, over 44,000 Native Americans served, including nearly 800 women. Since 9/11, Native Americans have served at a higher per-capita rate than any other ethnic group. While their reasons for serving are as diverse as their tribal affiliations, many cite their desire to follow in the footsteps of family members and the cultural value placed on patriotism, duty, and Warrior traditions.

Reed said the Oklahoma Legislature appropriated $4.3 million for a 45th Infantry arch and site development.

“Even though the 45th Infantry arch will be the anchor monument to the new Veterans Park, what we are doing is going out and working to establish the other monuments and sculptures in the park. The first one being the Native American Warrior Monument,” he said.

Reed said the Veterans Park; the Veterans Arch and the Native American Warrior Monument have already been approved by the Oklahoma Arts Council.
“The Arts Council cannot put the project out to bid until we raise the funds. Once the funds are raised, invitations to bid on the project will only go out to Native American artists and sculptors,” he said.

Reed said his statewide tour is going well.

“We’re getting great newspaper coverage, front-page coverage on every rural newspaper in every rural city that we visit. So, we’re getting the word out,” he said.
Reed said he would like to have all the funds raised by early 2026, but construction on the project may not start until Fall 2026.“The Arch and the site development will all be

completed and dedicated sometime in the middle of next summer, 2026,” he said. “Until that’s dedicated, we can’t put another monument on there.”

Reed said he is grateful to play a part in Nigh’s vision for the project.

“He was my dear friend, and no one represented the state of Oklahoma better than George Nigh. There will never be another George Nigh in Oklahoma,” Reed said. “And so, this means everything to me to see this Veterans Park beginning with the Native American Warrior Monument to become a reality. Nothing means more to me, and I will not stop until we succeed.”

Check donations for the project can be mailed to 50 Foundation, PO box 722838 in Norman, Okla., 73070. Visit www.force50foundation.com or use your phone and scan the code below. • story 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 [email protected] 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

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

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

Route 66 felt the weight of Plymouths, Dodges and Chryslers during the 5th (third time in Bristow) Southern Plains Mopar Fest (SPMF) on Oct. 3-4. On Day 1, a caravan of Mopars cruised 62 miles in the “Run for the Tower Route 66 Cruise.” On Day 2, owners checked-in 76 cars and trucks for a car show on three blocks of Main Street (also Route 66).

Doug Cataline, owner/operator of the SPMF, loves Mopar vehicles and shares that enthusiasism with Bristow officials by making the town a SPMF showcase. He estimated 4,500 people attended the second day.

On Oct. 3, at 11:00 a.m., participants in 30 vehicles departed from the Chrysler Plymouth Dealership on 9th Ave. Their quest? Enjoy a “Run for the Tower Route 66 Cruise” and pick up playing cards to earn the best poker hand at seven roadside landmarks,

Daryl Bishop of OKC piloted his 1974 Plymouth Duster. He enjoyed the Route 66 Bowl card stop in Chandler and praised lunch at Butchers BBQ, another card stop. Although he assembled two queens and two 5s, he fell short.

David Griffin of Bartlesville did win the poker run with four “threes “ (four of a kind), earning him $560 and a Top 30 plaque for his 2023 Dodge Demon in the car show. “It was an opportunity of a lifetime…I’ve never been on Route 66 for that long of a period. It was fabulous to see all the old places,” he said.

After returning to Bristow by 5:00 p.m., more than 50 cruisers gathered with locals at C&J Kountry Fixings to eat and socialize.
On Day 2, Mopar owners from six states displayed entire lineups of classic machinery: Chrysler 300s, Newports, Barracudas (A-Body), Cudas (E-Body), Superbirds, Road Runners, Super Bees, Chargers and pickup trucks gleamed under the hot sun on both sides of Route 66.

The most unusual entry was an original 1942 Dodge WC54 ambulance painted drab green. Twenty-six year Army veteran Kevin Hicks of Chandler brings it to some car shows “because it’s a tribute to the greatest generation.” It won a Top 30 plaque.

According to Motortrend.com, Chrysler Corp. introduced Mopar (combination of “motor” and “parts”) products in 1937. “When talking with an enthusiast, a Mopar car is one built by one of the original Chrysler Corp. brands, which in order of ascendancy are Plymouth, Dodge, DeSoto, Ram, Chrysler, and Imperial.” Jeep qualifies, as Chrysler bought the brand in 1987.

Two distinguished guests flew in to mingle. Paul Rossi, a Mopar representative and champion National Hot Rod Association drag racer from 1963 to 2000, proudly showed his 1970 Dodge Challenger to admirers. Claudia Abel, Miss Direct Connection 1984, journeyed from Detroit. She told attendees, “What an opportunity to drive, walk and visit…the nostalgic Route 66.”

Why hold the SPMF in Bristow? Cataline explained, “We all are hobbyists and we love the Chrysler Plymouth name…The second reason is to bring absolute awareness to the Chrysler Plymouth Tower that’s in this awesome little town…in the crossroads of America…So it gave me inspiration to do a show here.” The 1949 “Tower of Power” is being repaired for reinstallation at the corner of Main and 9th Streets in the summer of 2026.
Amid 30 vendors selling merchandise, parts, services, and food, attendees enjoyed live music from Tulsa’s “Tempest Revival,” covering hits of the ‘70s through ‘90s. “Sales have been very good because of the car show,” noted Jordayn Fleetwood of Buffalo Beverage Company

Car judging took place from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., with awards at 2:00 p.m. Cataline gave the Top 30 plaques first, then special awards. Highlights: Leslie Foster of Ebgerton, Kansas, won “Claudia’s pick” (a signed photo) for his 1971 Dodge Charger. Scott Wood took home the Sponsor’s Award for a 1961 Plymouth.

Two elite awards went to Kerri Somerville of Edmond. Her spotless, white 1947 Dodge Power Wagon (pickup truck) won the B.A.M.F. (three-foot trophy) and Best of Show (enamel guitar).

Cataline generously donated $500 to Bristow’s FAA and $1,000 to its Historical Society.

The SPMF contributes to Bristow’s ability to draw people downtown to attend free, fun activities. Mayor Kris Wyatt texted, “Events like the Southern Plains Mopar Fest help draw people to our community, supporting local businesses and showcasing the charm that makes Bristow such a special stop along Route 66.”

Asked why do car buffs like Mopar, Cataline smiled. “Everything is classic and if you like cars, you have to be here because you’ll love these cars. They’re old and old is cool.” • Story by Retired Lt. Col. Richard Stephens, Jr., USAFER. See Rich Travel Niche

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: [email protected] 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

Veterans Day Appreciation Event Nov 8, 2025 LOCATION: Mannford Museum
Mannford, OK 74044 Note: Spend the afternoon honoring our nation’s veterans during the Veteran’s Day Appreciation event hosted at the Veteran’s Memorial behind the Mannford Museum.

Duncan’s Veterans Day Parade
Nov 8, 2025 LOCATION: 828 W Main St B Duncan, OK 73533 Note: Bring the whole family out to downtown Duncan this November for a community-wide Veterans Day Parade.

Canadian County Veterans Parade & Program
Nov 9, 2025 LOCATION: 110 S Bickford Ave El Reno, OK 73036 Note: Celebrate Veterans Day in El Reno during the annual Canadian County Veterans Parade and Program. This event begins Sunday afternoon with a parade and ends with a program at the Historic Centre Theatre.

Veterans Celebration
Nov 11, 2025 LOCATION: S Littler Ave & East 4th Street, 431 S Blvd Edmond, OK 73034 Note: This Veterans Day, head to Stephenson Park in Edmond for a late-afternoon event to celebrate veterans and their families.

Jay Veterans Day Parade
Nov 11, 2025 LOCATION: Main St Jay, OK 74346 Note: Celebrate military veterans past and present at the Jay Veterans Day Parade. Bundle up and bring out the whole family to Jay’s Main Street to watch as decorated floats line the streets.

Veterans Day Parade
Nov 11, 2025 LOCATION: Main St Eufaula, OK 74432 Note: Spend the morning honoring our nation’s veterans during Eufaula’s Veterans Day Parade.

Midwest City Veterans Day Parade
Nov 11, 2025 LOCATION: 916 S Douglas Blvd Midwest City, OK 73130 Note: Honor those who served our country during the annual Midwest City Veterans Day Parade this November.

Veterans Day Parade
Nov 11, 2025 LOCATION: Main St Eufaula, OK 74432 Note: Spend the morning honoring our nation’s veterans during Eufaula’s Veterans Day Parade.

Veterans Day Parade
Nov 11, 2025 LOCATION: Main St Eufaula, OK 74432 Note: Spend the morning honoring our nation’s veterans during Eufaula’s Veterans Day Parade.

Veterans Day Parade
Nov 11, 2025 LOCATION: Main St Eufaula, OK 74432 Note: Spend the morning honoring our nation’s veterans during Eufaula’s Veterans Day Parade.

EDITORS NOTE: Be sure to email your events celebration information to be included in our next issue of Oklahoma’s Veteran News! Listing are free, and based on space available.

CAR/GUN/CYCLE SHOWS

Cruise-In to Bridging Vines
Nov 1, 2025 LOCATION: 11216 N Cimarron Rd Yukon, OK 73099 Note: This November, head to Yukon for the Cruise-In to Bridging Vines. Enjoy a classic car show, live music by classic rock band Intention and delicious food from Big Mama’s Spuds & Sweets.

Rodeo Hall of Fame Weekend
Nov 7, 2025 – Nov 8, 2025 LOCATION: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Oklahoma City, OK 73111 Note: Come salute the best in the rodeo world at the Rodeo Hall of Fame Weekend in Oklahoma City. Held at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, the Hall of Fame Class celebrates the story and people of rodeo culture.

Battle of Honey Springs Reenactment Nov 7, 2025 – Nov 9, 2025 LOCATION: Honey Springs Battlefield Checotah, OK 74426 Note: Commemorate the anniversary of the Battle of Honey Springs with a special demonstration of the battle in Checotah near Rentiesville. Come and witness as costumed actors bring to life the largest military clash ever to have occurred in Oklahoma.

Wanenmacher’s Tulsa Arms Show
Nov 8, 2025 – Nov 9, 2025 LOCATION: Tulsa Expo Square Tulsa, OK 74153 Note: The Wanenmacher’s Tulsa Arms Show is one of the largest firearms shows in the world.

Cars N’ K9s
Nov 15, 2025 LOCATION: 201 S Division, Asher, OK Note: A benefit for animal rescues, featuring classic cars, trucks, imports, and bikes. It includes food trucks, vendors, and a chance to win a prize for bringing a toy for the Asher Angel Tree.

EV Car Show – By First United Bank –
Nov 15, 2025 LOCATION: 201 S Division, Asher, OK Note: A benefit for animal rescues, featuring classic cars, trucks, imports, and bikes. It includes food trucks, vendors, and a chance to win a prize for bringing a toy for the Asher Angel Tree.

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