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Cherokee Nation At-Large Tribal Councilor Johnny Jack Kidwell addresses a crowd of veterans and their families Nov. 12 at the tribe’s first Veterans Summit held in Roland, Oklahoma. Kidwell served 20 years in the U.S. Coast Guard.
CHAD HUNTER/CHEROKEE PHOENIX
Episode 3150 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about how the Cherokee Nation honored its Veterans. The featured story is titled Cherokee Nation hosts first Veterans Summit in Roland. It appeared on the Cherokee-Phoenix website. It was submitted by CHAD HUNTER Senior Reporter.
Hunter reported that The Cherokee Nation held its first-ever Veterans Summit on Nov. 12 in Roland, Oklahoma, bringing together dozens of Cherokee veterans to honor their service and reaffirm the deep military tradition of Native Americans. Former U.S. Army military police officer Billy Bryant, who usually avoids public events due to anxiety and depression, said he felt compelled to attend because only fellow veterans truly understand the experiences they share. Among the attendees was 82-year-old Marine Corps veteran Jamie Cochran of Tahlequah, who served two years in Vietnam before the draft era, proudly volunteering for duty.
Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr. delivered the keynote address, stressing that the summit—and a second event planned for Nov. 19 in Vinita—reflects the tribe’s commitment to engaging and supporting its veterans. He reminded attendees that Cherokee service members, like other Native Americans, have long defended the United States, forming what he described as an “unbroken chain of service” dating back to the Civil War. According to the U.S. Department of Defense, Native Americans serve in the armed forces at a higher rate per capita than any other ethnic group, a testament to their enduring patriotism and dedication to the nation’s founding principles.
The summit offered veterans a meal, music, door prizes, and direct access to Cherokee Nation services. It also highlighted ongoing tribal programs such as the Cherokee Medal of Patriotism and Warrior Flights to Washington, D.C. For many like Bryant, participation was both healing and a reminder of the pride Native veterans carry for defending their country.
Listen to Episode 3150 and discover more about how the Cherokee Nation honored its Veterans.
