Cherokee Nation honors veteran during August Council meeting

TAHLEQUAH, Okla. - The Cherokee Nation honored a Cherokee veteran with the Medal of Patriotism during the August meeting of the Council of the Cherokee Nation.

Steven Thomas Sibley of Perkins, Oklahoma, was recognized by Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr., Secretary of Veterans Affairs S. Joe Crittenden, and At-Large Councilor Johnny Jack Kidwell who acknowledged his service and sacrifice to our country.

Sibley entered the United States Air Force on April 20, 1974. He served four years on active duty and two years in reserve. Following a seven-year break, Sibley entered into the Air Force Reserves in 1987. In 1996, Sibley then entered the United States Army Reserve and achieved 21 years of service, 12 of those years were active duty.

While in the USAR, Sibley served in state with some time spent in Germany and Japan. On Sept. 30, 2017, Sibley was honorably discharged from the USAR with rank of Sgt. 1st Class.

Sibley was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal (2nd award); Army Commendation Medal (2nd award), Army Achievement Medal (5th award), Army Good Conduct Medal (3rd award), Armed Forces Reserve Medal W/M Device, Air Force Good Conduct Medal, and the Global War of Terrorism Service Medal.

Each month the Cherokee Nation recognizes Cherokee service men and women for their sacrifices and 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 serving 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.