The Cherokee Nation honored four Cherokee veterans with the Medal of Patriotism during council meetings.

Michael Lee Shephard of Cookson was recognized during the November Council meeting.

Shephard joined the U.S. Air Force in May of 1971.

He had a Military Occupation of Administrative Specialist, where he demonstrated organizational skills and contributed significantly to the Administration operations within the Air Force.

Shepherd’s military education included specialized training at Little Rock Air Force Base, Arkansas, Jungle Survival School in the Philippines and multiple administration courses. He was recognized with both the Air Force Good Conduct Medal and the National Defense Service Medal.

Shepherd was Honorably Discharged in December 1974.

Each month, the Cherokee Nation recognizes Cherokee service men and women for their sacrifices as a way to demonstrate the high regards in which all veterans are held by the tribe.