TAHLEQUAH, Okla. — The Cherokee Nation honored a Cherokee veteran with the Medal of Patriotism during the February meeting of the Council of the Cherokee Nation.
Cory Surratt of Bixby was recognized by Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr., Chief of Staff Corey Bunch and Secretary of Veterans Affairs S. Joe Crittenden, acknowledging their service and sacrifice to this country.
Cory Surrat joined the United States Army in October 1995, serving with the Seabees Naval Mobile Construction Battalion as a carpenter. Surrat was deployed to Okinawa, Japan; Pearl Harbor, Hawaii; Puerto Rico; and Atsugi, Japan. He took on various tasks during his service such as project planning during pre-deployment, material expeditor, project crew member and project crew leader. Surratt was honorably discharged in October 2000. During his service, he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal and Good Conduct Medal.
“I appreciate the award,” said Surrat. “It is an honor to be recognized by my tribe in front of the Council.”
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.