TAHLEQUAH, Okla. — The Cherokee Nation will host a bench monument unveiling ceremony in honor of Dwight Birdwell, a Cherokee Nation citizen, Vietnam War veteran, two-time Silver Star recipient, two-time Purple Heart recipient, a Bronze Star recipient, and Medal of Honor recipient Friday.

Specialist Five Birdwell was a soldier with Troop C, 3rd Squadron, 4th Calvary, 25th Infantry Division. Originally from Adair County, Mr. Birdwell was awarded the Purple Heart and two Silver Star medals for extraordinary heroism in multiple battles. Birdwell was also a member of the Supreme Court of the Cherokee Nation from 1987 to 1999, serving as its chief justice from 1995 to 1996 and 1998 to 1999.

Last year, President Joe Biden presented the Medal of Honor to Birdwell in a ceremony at the White House on July 5, 2022.