Senate Leader Praises Veterans

Several hundred Oklahoma men and women who served their nation in the military gathered at the Capitol today for an annual event aimed at bringing attention to the states veterans. Senate President Pro Tempore Cal Hobson, a veteran of the Air Force and a retired Colonel with the Air National Guard, said it was particularly poignant to have the veterans at the State Capitol this year. In light of the fact that our country seems to be on the verge of war, it is critically important that our veterans took the time to come to the State Capitol to remind us of their service to our country, said Senator Hobson, DLexington. Retired Air Force Master Sergeant Kenneth Pannell came from Hugo to attend the gathering at the State Capitol. Pannell has a son and four grandchildren in the military. Of course I worry. I try to keep in touch with them all the time to find out what theyre doing. Ive got a fivestar flag in my window. Were a military family. We just take what comes and work with it, said Pannell. Senator Hobson told the veterans that completing the center in Lawton remained a top priority for Oklahoma. Its important to give credit to the many years of work Senator Jim Maddox and Senator Sam Helton have dedicated to making this Lawton Veterans Center a reality, said Hobson. That center will become the seventh in the state when it is complete. Others are located in Ardmore, Claremore, Clinton, Norman, Sulphur and Talihina. Senator Hobson said it was important to do good things in memory of those who were willing to give the ultimate sacrifice for their country, especially now. This country must be united when it goes to war. We must remember those who led us in previous conflicts, said Hobson.