Chickasaw Nation Head Start students Lauryn Little, left, and Madison Crispin show their support for America’s troops during the March “National Support the Troops and their Families Day” gathering at Chickasaw Nation Headquarters in Ada.

Citizens of the Chickasaw Nation and the Ada community -both young and old -paused to remember America’s servicemen and women Wednesday, March 26. The ceremony was conducted at Chickasaw Nation headquarters to commemorate the “National Support the Troops and Their Families Day.”

The day was designated by Congress to remember active duty troops and their families and their enormous sacrifices made in service to the United States.

“We have deep debt of gratitude to these members of the armed forces -our friends and neighbors -who make selfless sacrifices to ensure our way of life,” said Governor Bill Anoatubby. “We honor all active troops and their families.”

“Because of our military we can have our freedom and democracy,” Lieutenant Governor Jefferson Keel told the crowd. “We may not see it, but each and every one of us has someone over there.”

Chickasaw tribal legislator Wanda Blackwood Scott attended the ceremony to honor her son, U.S. Army Major Jimmy Dale Scott.

Major Scott is serving his third tour of duty with the Army in Kirkuk, Iraq.

“He is coming home this year,” Mrs. Scott said.

The ceremony, which was attended by dozens of adults and children, included a flag presentation by the Chickasaw Honor Guard and a prayer by Lighthorse Police Chief Jason O’Neal.

A moment of silence was observed to recognize the sacrifices of service members and their families.

Following the ceremony, participants had the opportunity to write a note of encouragement or gratitude to servicemen and women who are serving away from home.

A station was also available to update military addresses and information.

First passed by Congress in 2006, “National Support the Troops and Their Families Day” was the idea of a Michigan teenager. The resolution states that “all Americans should participate in a moment of silence to support our troops.”

The Chickasaw Nation is currently updating its military database. If you know of a Chickasaw solider who is on active duty and stationed away from home, please contact Joy Barrick in the Chickasaw Nation Public Affairs Department at 580-310-6451 or email joy.barrick@chickasaw.net.

Addresses will be added or updated as needed.