Cherokee Nation honors veteran at April council meeting

TAHLEQUAH, Okla. - The Cherokee Nation honored Larry Dean Blevins, of Tahlequah, with the Medal of Patriotism during the April meeting of the Council of the Cherokee Nation.

Blevins was recognized by Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr. and Secretary of Veterans Affairs S. Joe Crittenden, acknowledging the veteran's service and sacrifice to the country.

Blevins entered the United States Air Force in 1971, serving during the Vietnam Era. He completed Diagnostic Tech, Engine systems and Advanced Traffic Tech trainings for his Military Occupation Specialty as a General-Purpose Vehicle Repairman.

He also received the National Defense Service Medal and the Air Force Good Conduct Medal. Blevins was Honorably Discharged on August 31, 1975 with the rank of Sargeant.

"I recommend all young people coming out of high school enter the military," Blevins said at the ceremony. "They have all types of training. Anything you want to do, they get you ready for."

Each month, the Cherokee Nation recognizes Cherokee service men and women for their sacrifices as a way to demonstrate the high regard in which all veterans are held by the tribe.

Native Americans, including Cherokees, are thought to have more citizens serve per capita than any other ethnic group, according to the U.S. Department of Defense.

To nominate a veteran who is a Cherokee Nation citizen, call 918-772-4166.