The Cherokee Nation honored three veterans, which included Michael William Smith of Sallisaw, with the Medal of Patriotism during the July meeting of the Council of the Cherokee Nation.

Smith, along with Larry R. Richardson Sr. of Claremore and Clarence Wesley “Sonny” DeGraw of Jenks, were recognized by Deputy Principal Chief Bryan Warner and Secretary of Veterans Affairs S. Joe Crittenden for their service and sacrifice to the country.

Smith joined the United States Navy on Aug. 19, 1992, and completed boot camp in Great Lakes, Ill. He then went to Dam Neck, Va. to receive training to become an Operation Specialist in air traffic control.

Smith’s first duty station was aboard the USS Belknap (CG-26) command of the Sixth Fleet, stationed in Gaeta, Italy for 14 months conducting several war games and joint exercises with NATO Navy ships.

Petty Officer Third Class Smith was then stationed in Jacksonville, Fla. aboard the USS Fahrion (FFG-22), a reserve frigate where they did a UNITAS that went around South America on a six-month deployment with the South American Navy doing several joint exercises. Smith was honorably discharged on Aug. 19, 1996.

Each month, the Cherokee Nation recognizes service men and women for their sacrifices and to demonstrate the high regard in which all veterans are held by the tribe. Native Americans, including Cherokees, are thought to have more citizens serving per capita than any other ethnic group, according to the U.S. Department of defense.

To nominate a veteran who is a Cherokee Nation citizen, call 918772-4166.