News - Cherokee Nation Grants Highest Honors to Veterans Filled with Valor

The Cherokee Nation, a community rich with history and pride in its members' distinguished service, once again paid tribute to its veterans by awarding the revered Medal of Patriotism during the January Tribal Council meeting. This recognition went to two outstanding veterans: John Leslie Brown of Catoosa and Woodrow Wilson of Jay. Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr., Deputy Chief Bryan Warner, and Secretary of Veterans Affairs S. Joe Crittenden were present to honor these veterans for their unwavering commitment and sacrifices for their country. Brown's military journey commenced when he enlisted in the U.S. Navy on November 4, 1994. Boot camp training at Great Lakes, Illinois, led him to serve aboard the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69) as an Aviation Boatswain Mate Fuels, performing the crucial task of fueling and defueling aircraft. His tenure included night and day operations in the challenging waters of the Mediterranean Sea, earning him an honorable discharge by November 3, 1997. His service was decorated with recognitions such as the National Defense Medal and the Meritorious Unit Commendation Medal. Expressing his pride in serving the military and his heritage, Brown thanked the Cherokee Nation for the honor extended to him and his family. In parallel, Woodrow Wilson commenced his service on April 5, 1956, enlisting in the U.S. Army where he trained rigorously at Fort Carson, Colorado. His role as an auto maintenance helper placed him amidst the post-war reconstruction efforts in Germany. His exemplary skill in handling the M1 Rifle earned him a fourth-place rank in the competitive M1 Rifle Competition at Little Camp Perry in 1957. Wilson completed his service with a good conduct medal as testament to his outstanding service record and was honorably discharged on February 3, 1958. The monthly honor bestowed by the Cherokee Nation not only illuminates the individual stories of its veterans but also highlights a broader national narrative. According to the U.S. Department of Defense, Native Americans, and Cherokees in particular, are renowned for surpassing other ethnic groups in terms of their per capita contributions to military service. This remarkable commitment underscores the tribe's profound respect for its members who have put forth extraordinary sacrifice and service, resonating with the ethos of courage and valor that runs deep within the Cherokee community.