Veteran and Military Affairs

Rep. Derrick Hildebrant, R-Catoosa, chair of the Oklahoma Veterans and Public Safety Caucus, and Rep. Chris Banning, R-Bixby, an Air Force veteran, applauded the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs’ announcement that it processed a record-high 3,111,399 disability compensation claims in Fiscal Year 2026. "Veterans should not have to face unnecessary delays or barriers when seeking the benefits and care they have earned through their service, sacrifices, and dedication to our nation. We are grateful for all they and their families have given in defense of our freedoms," the lawmakers said. "This reduction in the claims backlog means more veterans and their families are receiving the timely support they deserve. Recognizing and honoring their sacrifices with meaningful, dependable service is significant progress for veterans across Oklahoma and the nation. "We deeply appreciate the men and women at the VA who are diligently working to serve those who have served our country. We will continue supporting efforts that make it easier for Oklahoma veterans and their families to access the benefits, health care, and services they have earned through their sacrifice and commitment to our nation." The VA reported that its FY2026 claims total exceeded the previous record of 3,001,734 claims set in FY2025. The department also reported that its benefits backlog has been reduced by more than 70%, while claims-processing accuracy has reached 94%, the highest level in two years.

Rep. Derrick Hildebrant, R-Catoosa, chair of the Oklahoma Veterans and Public Safety Caucus, and Rep. John George, R-Newalla, vice chair, released statements today marking 25 years since the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks. Hildebrant, a retired Air Force veteran who served 25 years in the Oklahoma Air National Guard, watched the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks unfold while deployed near Iraq. "On September 11, 2001, I was deployed to Incirlik Air Base in Turkey in support of Operation Northern Watch. Like all Americans, we watched in shock as the terrorist attacks unfolded, uncertain of what would come next. I was only three years into my military service, but 9/11 became a defining moment in my career. Every operation I supported or deployed to during the next 23 years stemmed, directly or indirectly, from the events of that day. "25 years later, America is still living with the consequences of that day. We lost 2,977 innocent lives on 9/11, and in the wars that followed, more than 7,000 American service members were killed in action. I’m not bitter. I’m grateful to have served in this era and mindful of those who never came home. "My heart is with the families of the 2,977 victims, including the seven Oklahomans, the countless first responders and the thousands of American service members who gave their lives in the years that followed. I encourage everyone to take a moment today to remember them and pray for their families. Their sacrifice should never be forgotten." George, who served in the Oklahoma National Guard for five years and the Oklahoma City Police Department for over 30 years, recalled sitting in his OKCPD office watching the events unfold. "The events of September 11th, 2001, have always stuck in my memory, as I know they do for every other American. I will always remember the civilian lives lost that day, as well as my First Responder colleagues who ran into danger and paid the ultimate sacrifice for their fellow man. "Every year, this day serves as a reminder that the terroristic desire to destroy our great country still exists today. But our commitment to the freedoms of America and our willingness to aid our neighbors is even stronger than any threat. May we continue to remember the unity that bound our nation together in the days following this attack, and may we continue to pray for peace upon all affected by this tragedy." Seven Oklahomans were killed in the Sep. 11 terrorist attacks. The Oklahoma Veterans and Public Safety Caucus represents veterans, active-duty service members, first responders and public safety professionals while advocating for those who serve and protect Oklahoma communities.

Gov. Kevin Stitt on Wednesday ceremonially signed a bill supporting the health and well-being of military personnel. House Bill 3673, authored by Rep. Nicole Miller, R-Edmond, establishes the Oklahoma Tricare Reserve Select Reimbursement Program to provide grants to military members on state active duty orders for more than 30 days. These grants will reimburse eligible personnel for the cost of purchasing Tricare Reserve Select insurance coverage, benefiting both the service members and their immediate family members.  "This legislation represents our commitment to the men and women who serve our state," Miller said. "By alleviating the financial burden of healthcare costs, we are ensuring that they can focus on their vital duties without worrying about the health and well-being of their families." Miller said the Oklahoma Tricare Reserve Select Reimbursement Program will be a critical resource for those who serve on extended state active duty, providing them with peace of mind and essential healthcare coverage. Sen. Brenda Stanley, R-Midwest City, coauthored the bill. Her district includes Tinker Air Force Base. "This program ensures that those on state active duty are supported not only in their critical roles but also in securing the healthcare coverage they need for themselves and their families," Stanley said. "I appreciate Representative Miller, Governor Stitt, and the special guests who joined us for the ceremonial signing of this legislation. It is always an honor to come together in support of our service members and to celebrate policies that serve those who have served us." Rep. Josh West, R-Grove, also attended Wednesday's ceremonial signing. "As a veteran who was wounded in combat, I can't stress enough the importance of having the proper amount and the right type of insurance coverage not only for ourselves but for our family members," West said. "I'm grateful to see this bill signed into law to begin helping our military members with the cost of such coverage." Miller worked on the legislation with the National Guard Association of Oklahoma (NGAOK). "The National Guard Association of Oklahoma is excited on the signing of HB 3673 as it will provide another needed benefit to our Oklahoma Guardsmen while they are serving the state," said James Hight, who serves as president of NGAOK. "We would like to thank the many legislators, Governor and the Oklahoma National Guard for putting in the work to ensure Oklahoma Guardsmen have all the tools they need to complete any mission they are given. The Oklahoma National Guard is always ready and always there because of the countless efforts of so many to ensure they are the best Guardsmen in the country." The program will be administered by the Oklahoma Military Department. HB3673 takes effect Nov. 1.