TVLSE, Oklv – For veterans of the Vietnam War from the Muscogee (Creek) Nation, June 11 was a day of remembrance. At the River Spirit Casino in Tulsa, Oklahoma a large number of veterans from one of the most controversial wars in American history attended a Welcome Home Recognition event. It honored those who fought in Vietnam and who did not receive the welcome home they deserved upon return from overseas. In one of the casino’s large ballrooms on the second floor, veterans sat and enjoyed a moment of brotherhood, friendship, and above all, remembrance of those who had fallen before them.
The event was attended by veterans from all over the United States, with one coming from as far as California. The gathering was also attended by many, including members of the National Council, such as Representative Randall Hicks, Representative Thomasene Yahola Osborn, Representative Mary Crawford, Representative Joyce Deere, and Representative Anna Marshall, as well as Second Chief Del Beaver.
The meeting was introduced by Grover D. Wind, Secretary of Veterans Affairs for the Muscogee (Creek) Nation. Chief Beaver gave a short speech along with an opening prayer before lunch was served.
Following the lunch and the continued swapping of stories and experiences, the first speaker was introduced as Mitchell Reed, the Legislative Ambassador for the Military Order of the Purple Heart (MOPH) Department of Oklahoma. Reed then presented an honorary award to the Muscogee (Creek) Nation for their service to veterans, which was accepted by Chief Beaver.
Wind then introduced the next guest, who was the main speaker for the event, Dwight W. Birdwell. Birdwell was a Specialist Five when he received his second of two Silver Stars in Vietnam, which was later upgraded to a Medal of Honor in 2022. Birdwell, a citizen of the Cherokee Nation, talked about his experiences. This included how he received his Medal of Honor, and how he left the military, got married, became a lawyer and later Chief Justice of the Cherokee Nation. He received incredible amounts of applause and support from the attendees listening.
Secretary Wind remarked that he hopes VASO and the Muscogee (Creek) Nation can hold more events like these to honor veterans of the tribe soon, in order to give veterans the honor and respect they deserve.
I would like to be informed when events are going to happen.. I’m a Veteran of the Vietnam War. Thank You. Mitch