Sen. Pugh gives keynote address during 248th Army birthday ceremony, welcomes new Oklahoma recruits

OKLAHOMA CITY – Sen. Adam Pugh, R-Edmond, gave the keynote address Wednesday during a ceremony at the Oklahoma State Capitol recognizing the 248^th anniversary of the United States Army inception and welcomed around 30 new recruits from Oklahoma, who are leaving for basic training. 

In paying homage to the Army’s date of inception, Pugh, a United States Air Force Veteran, also thanked the recruits for their willingness to sign up to defend the nation. 

“The United States military must always be ready for international uncertainty, and it requires brave and strong men and women who answer the call to put their lives on the line to defend our country,” Pugh said. “Second place is not an option because there is no consolation prize. As we celebrate the 248^th birthday of the United States Army, the greatest fighting force the world has ever seen, I applaud these future soldiers for their commitment to their country and for their sacrifice behind their decision to sign up for this path. They have chosen to join the ranks of those who fought at Valley Forge, San Juan Hill and the Minutemen from the start. Citizens turned soldiers, who have been ready at arms since 1775."

“To these new recruits and future soldiers who stood today inside the Capitol rotunda with their right hand raised and took an oath, thank you. You will be asked to defend your country on behalf of national security interests of the United States. Our nation owes you a debt of gratitude. The Legislature will continue to make Oklahoma the most veteran-friendly state in the country. We are incredibly proud of our military installations, and the great men and women and who fight and serve.”

Sen. Pugh is a former captain in the United States Air Force and AWACS aviator. As an Air Battle Manager, he logged combat support missions in the Global War on Terror, coordinating hundreds of U.S. and allied aircraft at any given time in the theater of operations. Pugh flew missions in Iraq, the Balkans, Asia, and eastern Europe. As chief of Readiness and Inspections, he led and prepared an entire airwing for sustained combat flying operations.

While stationed in Germany, Pugh developed new training methods for aircrews. His ideas to better use technology and integrate training tools saved the USAF and our NATO allies millions annually.

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For more information, contact:  Sen. Pugh: (405) 521-5622 or Adam.Pugh@oksenate.gov

CUTLINE: Sen. Adam Pugh stands with U.S. Army personnel after delivering the keynote address at a ceremony at the Oklahoma State Capitol on Wednesday.