Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma’s Flight Operations pilots John Wesley, Al Cherry, and Quentin McLarry.
Choctaw Nation receives Beacon Award
By Lisa Reed
Choctaw Nation
Oklahoma City, Okla. - Eighty missions … more than 97,000 miles … the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma’s Flight Operations team has spent hundreds of flight hours on journeys to help wounded heroes. Four years ago, the Choctaw Nation joined Veterans Airlift Command (VAC), a nonprofit organization that provides free air transportation to wounded veterans and their families.
The Choctaw Nation was recognized for its charitable influence on July 16 with a 2015 Beacon Award during a ceremony at the Skirvin Hilton Hotel in Oklahoma City. It was among five other category winners who were honored for continuing to embody the spirit of giving.
“People and companies who give of their time and money to nonprofits don’t do it for the recognition. That’s why the Beacon Awards are so important; it’s an opportunity to salute companies who are making a significant difference, allowing and encouraging their employees to become involved in their communities,” said Joni Brooks, president and publisher of the Journal Record.
“I am so proud of our pilots for showing their heart and compassion for our veterans by assisting them through the Veteran’s Airlift Command,” said Chief Gary Batton. “They go above and beyond the call of duty to help and I am so thankful that the Choctaw Nation and our pilots are able to help those who have served God and country.”
It’s often nearly impossible for some veterans to travel on commercial airlines because of injuries, PTSD, or many other concerns. Veterans Airlift Command provides a free, low-stress environment for traveling to and from anywhere in the United States for medical and other compassionate services.
“Giving back to the community is part of the heart and soul of the Choctaw Nation,” said Al Cherry, director of flight operations. “The concern and understanding of Chief Batton and the Tribal Council for the needs of veterans in these situations, and their generosity, are what make it possible for us to make the trips.” Cherry, Quentin McLarry and John Wesley are the Nation’s three flight operations pilots.
Passengers assisted on the Choctaw Nation’s VAC flights have included an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) victim who lost both legs above the knee, one arm above the wrist, and severe damage to the other arm. The Choctaw Nation flew him and his wife home for the first time since the explosion. Cherry remembers a huge reception waiting for the veteran with Patriot riders, family, friends, and townspeople – a true hero’s reception.
Another flight carried a group of six wounded warriors, most who had been injured in different attacks, back to meet their units when their units returned from deployment. They were there for their units, but the town turned out for them.
The Choctaw Nation uses its business successes as a means to continue the missionary work of helping others. The Nation has participated in hurricane and tsunami relief, has an active Meals on Wheels program, has assisted many communities and churches with needs, and has several programs for boys and girls. Many tribal members and employees donate untold hours in helping build a sense of community.
“The Choctaw Nation takes a long-term view of its mission. By assisting with these efforts, we are encouraging our young people to grow and become better partners within their communities,” Cherry said. “In turn, they will encourage the next generation to do the same. The end game is that we are better people.”