TAHLEQUAH, Okla. – The Cherokee Nation honored two veterans with the Medal of Patriotism during the January meeting of the Council of the Cherokee Nation.
John Leslie Brown, of Catoosa, and Woodrow Wilson, of Jay, were recognized by Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr., Deputy Chief Bryan Warner and Secretary of Veterans Affairs S. Joe Crittenden acknowledging their service and sacrifices to the country.
Brown entered into the U.S. Navy on Nov. 4, 1994. He completed his boot camp in Great Lakes, Illinois and was later stationed aboard the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN- 69). He served aboard the Dwight. D. Eisenhower as an Aviation Boatswain Mate Fuels (ABF), and fueled and defueled aircraft during training and flight operations. Fueling operations took place day and night in the Mediterranean Sea. Brown was honorably discharged on Nov. 3, 1997.
Brown was awarded the National Defense Medal and the Meritorious Unit Commendation Medal.
“I’m proud to have served in the U.S. military for everybody’s freedom, as a proud member of the Cherokee Nation,” said Brown. “Thank you to everyone for inviting me and my family here for the recognition.”
Wilson entered into the U.S. Army on April 5, 1956. He completed his basic training and advanced individual training at Fort Carrison, Colorado. Wilson served as an auto maintenance helper while stationed in Germany from 1956-1958. While in Germany, he placed fourth in the M1 Rifle Competition held at Little Camp Perry, competing against 1,000 other soldiers in 1957. Wilson was honorably discharged on Feb. 3, 1958.
Wilson was awarded the Good Conduct Medal during his service.
Each month, the Cherokee Nation recognizes Cherokee service men and women for their sacrifices as a way to demonstrate the high regards 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.