Branch: Airforce
Rank: Sergent
Time of Service: Vietnam, 1968-1969
I’m a life member of ORA, a USAF Veteran. I served 1966-1970. I served in Vietnam 1968-69 as part of a crew responsible for ground-directing B-52 bombing missions. As a result of my exposure to Agent Orange, I have many service-connected disabilities and am drawing full disability from the VA.
I am married (working on year 56) with one Son and two Grandchildren. I worked and retired from AT&T / Southwestern Bell, retiring in 2001. After retirement, I worked as a Grady County Deputy Sheriff, a Reporter for The Newcastle Pacer, and later as Director of I/T for Bridgecreek School System. I retired medically in 2006. I’m an Extra Class Ham Radio Operator, I built and flew Ultra-Light Aircraft until medically unable. I’m an avid shooter, still active as a life member of the Tri-City Gun Club. I’m a life member of the NRA and several other pro-Second Amendment organizations.
Branch: Army
Rank: Sergent
Time of Service: Afghanistan and Iraq, 1997-2003
Whereas Josh West is a resident and current State Representative for House District 5 in Grove, Oklahoma, and honorably served in the United States Army; and
Whereas Josh West was first elected to the Oklahoma House of Representative in 2016. He has served as the Majority Leader and is a member of the House Leadership Team. Josh previously served his constituents as the Chairman of the Tourism Committee, Vice-Chairman of the Committee on Military and Veterans Affairs and served as an Assistant Majority Floor Leader. He currently Chairs the Veteran and Military Affairs Committee. In 2017 Josh started the Legislative Veterans Caucus, which he chaired until 2019; and
Whereas Josh West is a fourth generation Delaware County Native. Josh graduated from Grove High School in 1995. In 1996 he joined the United States Army, graduating basic training in 1997. During his time in the Army, he was deployed multiple times, including deployments to Afghanistan and Iraq. On 16 October 2003 Josh was critically wounded in a firefight in Karbala, Iraq. Josh was shot multiple times in both thighs and stomach and suffered a traumatic brain injury. For his actions that night in Iraq, Staff Sergeant Josh West was awarded the Purple Heart and Bronze Star with “V” device for Valor; and
Whereas Josh West was invited to the White House in March of 2019 for an executive order signing, as President Trump implemented the PREVENTS program, focusing on Veterans suicide. In August of 2019, Josh was awarded the inaugural Military Police Order of the Marechaussee Steel Award at a ceremony at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri; and
Whereas some of the awards Josh West has received are the Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal (V), Army Commendation Medal (4th Award), Army Achievement Medal (3rd Award), Army Good Conduct Medal (2nd Award), National Defense Service Medal (2nd Award), Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, NCOPD Ribbon (2nd Award), Army Service Ribbon, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Iraqi Campaign Medal, Combat Action Badge, Air Assault Badge and Expert Field Medical Badge; and
Whereas Josh West returned to Grove in 2010, where he lives with his wife Elizabeth and four children, Ethan, Walker, Katie and Aubrey; and
Whereas, the State of Oklahoma holds our veterans in highest esteem and appreciates the sacrifices and contributions they have made to preserve our freedoms and way of life. We are honored to serve with a true American hero, a man I admire and love; and
Whereas, the Oklahoma House of Representatives takes great pride in honoring you. You bring the same sense of duty to your role as State Representative as you did to serving your country, serving with honor and integrity. I am so proud to serve with you and stand with you, my brother, as Veteran of the Week.
Now, therefore, pursuant to the motion of REPRESENTATIVE Marcus McEntire and the State of Oklahoma extends to Josh West sincere commendations and directs that this citation be presented.
Branch: Marines
Rank: Lieutenant Colonel
Time of Service: Afghanistan and Iraq
Rep. Wallace is nominating Rep. Chris Kannady as Veteran of
the Week for several reasons.
First, Lt. Col. Kannady has an impressive military career,
serving as a judge advocate in the U.S. Marine Corps and later
in the Oklahoma Air National Guard. He has held various
leadership positions, including Deputy State Staff Judge
Advocate, where he provides legal advice to The Adjutant
General and subordinate commanders. His extensive
experience and expertise make him a valuable asset to the
military community.
Lt. Col. Kannady has also demonstrated exceptional
dedication and commitment to his country. He has served in
Iraq and Afghanistan, handling complex legal cases and
contributing to cutting-edge law of war and international
law issues. His work has had a significant impact, including
the repatriation of a client and successful negotiations of
pretrial agreements. Lt. Col. Kannady’s litigation experience
spans over 16 years and involves over 100 cases, including
high-profile and sensitive matters.
Furthermore, Lt. Col. Kannady’s educational achievements, including a Juris Doctor, a master’s in business administration, and advanced degrees in national security and foreign relations law, highlight his commitment to continuous learning and professional development. He has also published articles in legal journals, showcasing his expertise and contributions to the field.
Finally, Lt. Col. Kannady’s numerous awards and decorations, including the Defense Meritorious Service Medal and the Air Force Commendation Medal, reflect his exceptional performance and dedication to duty. His contributions to the military and his ongoing commitment to serving veterans make him a deserving candidate for Veteran of the Week
