january 2012

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VOLUME 12 EDITION 1 Lawton, OK January 2012

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Beautiful songs were sung during the annual Co-manche Nation Elders Day Dec. 16 at Watchetak-er Hall. Christ-mas carols in the Comanche language, Co-manche hymns, and an array of

Christmas songs were serenaded by talented voices. Pictured clockwise, the children of the Lawton and Apache Comanche Nation Daycares; Vic-toria Tahchawwickah; Elgin Middle School; Comanche Nation Princess Krista Hubbard; and the Little Washita Church choir all entertained the crowd during the event. For more on Elders Day, see 4.

Comanche One-Star General

Running for Congress

Jonathan George, an enrolled member of the Co-manche Nation, is running for the US Congress. George is a retired one-star General who served in the US Air Force from 1981-2011. He is the only Comanche vet-eran to earn General Officer status while serving in the mili-tary. George lives in Helton-ville, Ind., and is a candidate for Indiana’s 9th District. The US Congress is made up of 438 members, only one is an Amer-ican Indian. The US Senate which has 100 members has no American Indians. George has stated “Our Nation’s tribes are under repre-sented and are at a disadvantage with the Federal Government. I don’t think it is intentional as much as not many non-Indians understand Native American issues. I think I can be very ef-fective in bridging that gap. At least I am willing to give it ev-erything I have to do that.” His mother is Patricia Craig (Goodin) who grew up on the “Mission” next to the Comanche Reformed Church. Patricia currently lives in San Jose, Cali. His Kaku was Ella Lutz (Cox) and his great-grandmother was Nahmahkuh Parker. George’s great-great grandmother, Weckeah, was the first wife of Quanah Parker. The first elected Chairman of the Nation, James Cox, is his great-uncle. Donations for his cam-paign can be mailed to:

The Committee to Elect Jonathan George to Congress

PO Box 31Heltonville IN 47436

For more information about George you can visit his campaign website at http://www.georgeforcongress.com/ or contact him at (812) 545-1351 or his personal email at: [email protected].

Agriculture Secretary Vilsack announced the estab-lishment of a special advisory board to help USDA officials ensure Native Americans par-ticipate in and benefit from USDA programs. The board is being put in place as part of the Keepseagle settlement. "The Council for Native American Farming and Ranch-ing will help native govern-ments, businesses, farmers and ranchers partner with USDA to create jobs, drive economic growth and strengthen tribal communities," Vilsack said. The Council will work closely with the Office of Tribal Relations, Farm Service Agen-cy and other USDA agencies to improve the success of Native farmers and ranchers who ac-cess USDA's entire portfolio of programs to build and achieve profitability in their businesses. USDA recently established a technical assistance network with the Intertribal Agricul-ture Council. The network works across Indian Country in 13 regional locations. USDA also recently launched a strike force initiative in southeastern states that is now expanding to western states with substantial Native American populations. These two technical assistance efforts will work together to ensure the unique challenges of Native Americans, living both on and off reservations, can be addressed. Agriculture is the second largest employer in In-dian Country, according to the National Congress of American Indians. All nominations for advisory board membership should be sent by January 20, 2012 to: Thomas Vilsack, Sec-retary, U.S. Department of Ag-riculture, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC, 20250, Attn: Council for Na-tive American Farmers and Ranchers. Send comments to the Office of Tribal Relations, 500A Whitten Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington DC 20250. Establishing the board is just one of the recent steps USDA has taken and will take to assist Native Americans. USDA's Rural Housing Ser-vice will soon send a notice to all Rural Development offices reminding them that direct home loan borrowers on Native lands can consider AMERIND Corporation for their insurance needs. AMERIND is a tribal-owned organization that acts as a risk management pool for in-surance coverage of homes and other private and community structures on Native lands. The notice does not endorse AM-ERIND over other insurers, but provides another option for

USDA Establishes Advisory Board for

Native American Farmers and

RanchersSubmitted by USDA Office of Commu-nications.

Comanche tribal mem-bers can apply for energy as-sistance through the Low In-come Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) starting 9 a.m., January 3, at the Coman-che Nation Social Services De-partment. LIHEAP is a service in which tribal members may receive assistance with either electric or gas or propane. Assistance is based on gross

household income. Applicants must be an enrolled member of the Co-manche Nation and head of household, submit verification of income for the previous thir-ty (30) days and submit their current utility bill (electric or gas), which reflects their ac-count number. Assistance is not available to have services reconnected (services cannot

be disconnected). The service is only available if you have not received LIHEAP through any other tribe or agency. Trib-al members must reside in one of the following counties: Cad-do, Comanche, Cotton, Kiowa or Tillman. For more information, you may call the Social Service Department at (580) 492-3357.

LIHEAP Program Begins January 3Submitted by Comanche Nation Social Services Program

Tahdooahnippah Selected to Represent Comanche Nation on Federal Tribal

Advisory Committee

Tribal member Mia M. Tahdooahnippah was recently selected by the National Indian Gaming Commission to repre-sent the Comanche Nation on a Tribal Advisory Committee (TAC) to assist the NIGC re-view of new proposed Techni-cal Standards and Minimum Internal Control Standards (MICS). Tahdooahnippah said, “I am very proud to serve and represent the Comanche Na-tion. It is a great honor for all Comanche people for our Na-tion to be selected by the Na-tional Indian Gaming Commis-sion. The Nation has a voice to potentially make and suggest changes that could soon be-

come federal gaming laws that all tribes must abide by. I strive to protect our Class II gaming and any future technological advances that may arise, and keeping federal regulations to a minimum to allow each tribe to determine what is best for them. It is important to protect our future generations.” Tahdooahnippah is the Compliance Director for the Comanche Nation Gaming Commission. The Commission se-lected 15 people from various tribes across the US. “From those nominees we selected a diverse group of tribal government representa-tives whose combined exper-

tise will assist the Commis-sion as it continues to review the MICS and Technical Stan-dards,” explained NIGC Chair-woman Tracie Stevens. Stevens added, “This group of tribal representatives will assist the Commission so that the regulations continue to protect Indian gaming and en-sure that tribes are the primary beneficiaries of their opera-tions.” NIGC anticipates that the TAC will complete its work by March 31, and is committed to working diligently with the members of the TAC and oth-ers to complete a final rule in 2012.

Submitted by Mia Tahdooahnippah/Comanche Nation Gaming Commission

Courtesy Photo

Jonathan George

Submitted by Lanny Asepermy/CIVA

See USDA, Page 3

Photos by Jolene Schonchin/News Staff

SINGING SONGS FOR TRIBAL SENIORS

January 2012 2 The Comanche Nation News

2012 World TourJanuary 23rd at theJanuary 23 at the

Great Plains ColiseumDiscount TicketsDiscount Tickets

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COMANCHE NATION GAMING UPDATE

A great year for Comanche Nation and Comanche

Nation Gaming

Comanche Nation Gaming (CNG) is excited about what ended as a strong 2011 for the Comanche Na-tion’s casinos. 2011 was a year for renovations, new food of-ferings and venues, and intro-duction of innovative technol-ogies and exciting new games on the casino floors. Preliminary, un-audited figures for consolidated CNG net income show that 2011 was almost 19% higher than 2010, and 4% higher than 2008 (which was previously the best year in gaming net income). Comanche Nation Casino, Lawton, Okla., ended the fiscal year with an unprecedented in-crease in net income of approx-imately 43% over the previous year. The team members at all Comanche Nation casinos are to be commended for their hard work, customer service and contributions in making 2011 a great year. The Gaming Board of Directors and casino management greatly appreci-ate the effort that Comanche Nation Gaming team members put into their jobs each day. Comanche Red River Casino (Red River) completed a major renovation in early December. Casino guests have provided very positive feed-back about the new look and feel of the casino. Everything from the façade, to the design and theme inside the casino has a new and exciting look. The new layout offers a High Limit Slots Room and Lounge that hosts a great selection of new Class II and Class III game ti-tles. The introduction of Dick Clark’s AMA Coun-tryville Bar & Grill, located in-side Red River, provides a great food and entertainment expe-rience for Red River guests. Countryville has a tempting menu of amazing appetizers, entrées, sandwiches/burgers, and desserts. The Countryville stage is showcasing regional talent live every weekend. Countryville and Red River Casino items that are offered for sale in the Countryville Shop are also huge hits. Just walking through Countryville and taking in the

historical country music mem-orabilia is an amazing experi-ence. Red River Casino, histor-ically the Comanche Nation’s largest casino operation, is now in a position to provide a premier hospitality experience to its guests in a fun, exciting atmosphere. The composition of the Gaming Board of Direc-tors recently changed. Daphne Ticeahkie ended her service on the Gaming Board in Novem-ber. Ticeahkie began serving on the Gaming Board of Di-rectors in the summer of 2007. Ticeahkie was a strong advo-cate and champion for casino employees, and ensured fiscal responsibility of the casino en-terprises, through advocating and approving strong internal controls. During Ticeahkie’s time on the Board, she oversaw the selection of senior manage-ment, and contributed to stra-tegic planning that has proven to be critical to the continued growth of the Nation’s casinos. Comanche Nation Gaming thanks Ticeahkie for her self-less service, sincere dedication, and the time she contributed to the Comanche Nation Gaming Board throughout her time as a Board member. Lanny Asepermy has recently been named the new-est member of the Gaming Board of Directors. Service to the Comanche Nation is not new for Asepermy. In fact, Asepermy served as a member of the Comanche Nation Busi-ness Committee from 2007-2010. Asepermy is also an active leader in the Comanche Indian Veteran Association. Asepermy served for over 24 years in the United States mili-tary. The Gaming Board wel-comes Asepermy and looks forward to his guidance and leadership. After reflecting on 2011 and planning for 2012, Coman-che Nation Gaming is looking forward to another exciting year of providing a high-value entertainment experience to ca-sino guests, while maximizing distributions to the members of the Comanche Nation.

The Comanche Nation Gaming Board Of Directors (CNGBOD) held a reception for newly appointed Director, Lanny Asepermy, and outgoing Director Daphne Ticeahkie. Pictured are CNGBOD Chairman William Pahdocony and the outgoing Director Daphne Ticeahkie

Submitted by Donna Knowles/ Comanche Nation Gaming Board of Directors Staff

Courtesy Photo

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AARP Oklahoma Launches Indian Elder Navigator; Website is Single Point of Entry for Indian Services

AARP Oklahoma has announced the launch of the AARP Oklahoma Indian Elder Navigator – a single point of entry website for Indian elder services that can be accessed at: www.aarp.org/okindiannav-igator. “We hope that this new website will be a place where Indian elders from any Oklaho-ma Indian Tribe can go to find the service or resource that best fits their needs,” said AARP Executive Council Member and former Governor of the Absentee Shawnee Tribe John Edwards. “We envision it as a ‘living room’ of information for tribal elders.” The AARP Indian El-der Navigator is designed to be a resource center where tribes can list their contact informa-

tion and resources on such top-ics as housing, transportation and health care. At its launch, information on tribal nutrition and food commodity programs were posted on the site. AARP and AARP Foundation has launched an ef-fort called Drive to End Hun-ger to raise awareness of senior hunger and enroll more seniors in the Supplemental Food Nu-trition Program (SNAP). Ed-wards said AARP Oklahoma is expanding Drive to End Hun-ger to Indian country by post-ing Indian nutrition sites and food commodity distribution programs on the Indian Elder Navigator. Going forward, AARP officials say they hope to work directly with tribal leaders and program directors from all fed-

erally recognized tribes in Oklahoma to add new and up-dated information to the AARP Oklahoma Indian Elder Navi-gator. Program directors with questions about adding their program information can con-tact Craig Davis at [email protected] The association will also make presentations to In-dian elder groups and tribal councils in the upcoming year. At a luncheon in Okla-homa City, AARP debuted a new training video explaining the association’s work with Oklahoma Indian tribes that includes the Indian Elder Navi-gator, Drive to End Hunger and the 2012 AARP Indian Elder Honors program. To request a copy of the video, schedule a presentation to a tribal group or add infor-mation to the Indian Navigator, please e-mail: [email protected]. For more information on AARP Oklahoma or the AARP Oklahoma Indian Elder Navigator, visit: www.aarp.org/ok

Submitted by Oklahoma AARP Staff


THE COMANCHE NATION NEWS

The award-winning Co-manche Nation News, the official communication of the Comanche Nation, is available at no charge upon request. The deadline to submit information for the Febru-ary edition is noon January 16. Donations to help cover the cost of printing and mailing are welcome.

Contact:The Comanche Nation News

P.O. Box 908Lawton, Okla. 73502-0908

Telephone: (580) 492-3386Fax: (580) 492-3709Email: [email protected]

TCNN Staff• Jolene Schonchin, Editor,

Reporter, Photographer-Email: [email protected] Num-ber-(580)492-3382

• Paula Karty, Reporter, Photographer- Email: [email protected] Telephone Num-ber-(580)492-3383

• Candace Todd, Administra-tive Assistant-Telephone Number (580)492-3386

• Tomah Yeahquo, Informa-tion Specialist/Coman-che Nation Fair, Email: [email protected] Telephone Number (580)492-3384

• News items of interest to the local and American Indian community are welcome. Letters to the editor must be signed by a name.

• Photographs will be copied and will become the property of TCNN. To return original photographs, send a self-addressed stamped envelope. Do not send faxed photographs or newspaper copies of photographs.

• The Milestones Page (Birthdays, Anniversaries, Engagements,Memorial Pictures, Weddings, Births) are by submission only. The Passings are submitted by the Comanche Nation Funeral Home or by tribal members on a funeral home letterhead. The Milestones Page is for tribal members only. TCNN publishes all services conducted by The Comanche Nation Funeral Home without discretion. Obituaries are written for tribal members only.

• TCNN will print a Coman-che organization’s an-nual event flyer once free of charge as a courtesy to our tribal organizations. The guidelines for flyer submis-sion are: Pow-wow flyers have to be from an estab-lished Comanche organiza-tion. There has to be contact person and number on the organization’s annual flyer.

• We reserve the right to edit all material. Letters or articles that contain libelous information, slander, or personal attacks will not be printed. The letters to the editor or articles contained in the The Comanche Nation News does not reflect the opinions of the PIO staff.

Comanche Nation Officials

Chairman Johnny WauquaVice Chairman

Ed EschitiSecretary/TreasurerRobert Tippeconnie

Committeeman No. 1Ronald Red Elk

Committeeman No. 2Yonevea Terry

Committeeman No. 3Darrell KosechequetahCommitteeman No. 4Robert Komahcheet Jr.Tribal Administrator

William Owens

Tocontactofficials:Comanche Nation

P.O. Box 908Lawton, Okla. 73502

Toll Free: (877) 492-4988

Physical Address584 Bingo Rd.

Lawton, OK 73505

Member of the Native American Journalist

Association since 2001Member of

the Society of Professional Journalists since 2010

Best Holiday Wishes to You and Your Loved Ones

From Chairman Johnny Wauqua

Employment with Comanche Nation Gaming

Are you interested in employment with Comanche Nation Gaming (CNG) at one of the four (4) Co-manche Nation casinos: Coman-che Nation Casino, Comanche Red River Casino, Comanche Spur Casino, and Comanche Star Ca-sino? If you are, you should rou-tinely check for open positions by accessing the Comanche Nation Gaming website at: www.coman-chenationcasinos.com and click-ing on the “EMPLOYMENT”

link at the bottom of the page. This linked page will provide you with information on employment and other links depending on your employment status with Comanche Nation Gaming. You can directly access the Comanche Nation Gaming web-site to view open positions and complete an appli-cation for a position at: https://www.hrapply.com/comanche/setup.app. If you have never applied for a Comanche Nation Gaming position, you will have to set up an account before completing an applica-tion. You must have an e-mail address to establish an account.Computers are available inside all of the casinos for use by individuals to apply for CNG positions, if you do not have easy access to a computer with internet access. You should contact the Human Re-sourcesOfficeinthecasinotouseoneofthesecom-puters.

borrowers on Native lands to meeting the insurance require-ments of the program. USDA is also considering regulatory changes to expand the types of USDA projects that AMER-IND can insure. In addition to these recent commitments, USDA supports tribal areas with fund-ing for infrastructure improve-ments, small businesses and farmers and ranchers. On the Cheyenne River Sioux Reservation in South Dakota, USDA has provided nearly $30 million in the last two years to help replace an old and rapidly declining water system that was hit hard by an ice storm in January of 2010. USDA has worked closely with the Cheyenne River Sioux tribal government and the Standing Rock Sioux tribal government to provide over a $1 million to each reservation to prevent further loss of live-stock on these ag-dependent reservations. Broadband internet is an increasingly important tool for building profitable farm and ranch operations, growing businesses and thriving com-munities. That is why – over the past 3 years – USDA has invested over $400 million dollars in 41 projects to bring broadband to reservations and other tribal communities. Nearly half of this funding has gone directly to tribes or tribal-ly-owned businesses. USDA has also offered direct support to help tribal businesses grow. Last year alone the Department provid-ed dozens of loan guarantees and grants worth nearly $12 million. Also in the past fiscal year, USDA provided over $50 million in conservation fund-ing to tribes – an 85% increase over the year before. Keepseagle v Vilsack was a lawsuit alleging that USDA discriminated against Native American farmers and ranchers in the way it operated the Farm Loan Program. The lawsuit was settled late last year, and the settlement has been approved by the court. The filing period for claims opened June 29, 2011, and con-tinues for 180 days until De-cember 27, 2011. Up to $760 million will be made available in monetary relief, debt relief and tax relief to successful claimants. Claimant services

representatives can be reached through calling 1-888-233-5506. Claimants must register for a claims package by calling the number or visiting http://www.indianfarmclass.com. Since taking office, President Obama's Adminis-tration has taken historic steps to improve the lives of Native

Americans, put people back to work and build thriving econo-mies in tribal communities. At USDA, Secretary Vilsack has worked at President Obama's direction to deepen and strengthen our relationships with tribal communities and tribal governments. Vilsack has named – for the first time

ever at USDA – a Senior Advi-sor on Tribal Relations who re-ports directly to him. To ensure tribes have greater access to the full breadth of USDA pro-grams, and that the Department has engaged in Tribal consulta-tion on over 60 rules.

USDAContinued from Page 1


Comanche Nation Enterprises, Inc (CONEI)

Preparing for Success in 2012 CONEI, (Comanche Nation Enterprises, Inc.) is busy preparing for a success-ful year in 2012, and has been working on several activities to grow the company and im-prove communication with stakeholders. Comanche Members can now view our new web-site at www.cneincorporated.com to find more information about CONEI. They also invite Comanche members to “like” them on Facebook, at Coman-che Nation Enterprises, Inc. (CONEI) to stay up to date on CONEI’s events and activities. The CONEI facility has been under construction while CNC provides their office with a new facelift. CNC has done an outstanding job with the of-fice fit up and they are excited about starting the New Year in an updated facility. CONEI continues to evaluate acquisi-tions and is creating start-up businesses. When investment fund-ing is not available to CONEI,

they will start-up companies from scratch, while this ap-proach may take longer to reach their goals; CONEI has begun that process by creat-ing an engineering services company. This company will capture federal technology and engineering contracts under the SBA 8(a) program. When investment capital is available from the Comanche Nation or other funding sources, CONEI will acquire profitable com-panies. This enables them to reach their goals much faster than starting companies from scratch. CONEI continues to evaluate acquisition candi-dates, and has identified two companies that have made it to the final list of candidates. They are excited about the prospect of significant growth in 2012. CONEI’s suc-cess is powered by the contin-ued support of the Comanche membership, and they thank every Comanche member in advance for their support in the upcoming year.

MERRY TIME AT THE COMANCHE MUSEUM. The Comanche National Museum and Cultural Center in Lawton, Okla. held an open house on Dec. 14. The public was invited to come and partake in Christmas treats. There was around 150 people to kick off the annual event with plenty more that visited throughout the afternoon.

Photo by Candace Wilson/ News Staff

Take it Slow on Ice and Snow AAA Advises

With the threat of ice and snow once again in the forecast for Oklahoma, AAA reminds motorists that driving during wintry conditions can be treacherous. Take it easy on slick roadways, allow extra time to get where you’re going and drive slowly. Dress in layers. Heavy coats and gloves offer warmth outside but after the vehicle warms up, they should be taken off to allow you full head and arm movement. Before driving, remove any snow or ice on your ve-hicle’s windows, lights, brake lights and signals. Make sure you can see and be seen. Oklahomans often for-get how to drive on ice and snow because the state receives such a small amount of freez-ing precipitation each year. Here are some tips from AAA: • Drive well below the posted speed limit and leave plenty of room between you and the car in front of you. • Watch for black ice. Roads that seem dry may actu-ally be slippery and dangerous. Take it slow when approaching intersections, off-ramps, bridg-es and shady areas – all are hot spots for that hard-to-detect black ice. • Be aware of what’s go-ing on well ahead of you. The way other vehicles are behav-ing will alert you to problems more quickly and give you a split-second of added time to react safely.

• The faster you’re going, the longer it will take to stop. When accelerating on snow or ice, do so slowly to avoid slipping and sliding. Your trac-tion is greatest just before your power wheels start to spin. • Brake early, brake slowly and never slam on the brakes. With anti-lock brakes (ABS), press the pedal down firmly and hold it. If you don’t have ABS, gently pump the pedal. Either way, leave yourself lots of room to stop. • Don’t use cruise control when driving on ice and snow, and avoid sudden steering ma-neuvers. This will reduce your chance of skidding. • Give snowplows and sand trucks a wide berth – stay well behind these vehicles and don’t attempt to pass them. Make sure your vehicle is road-worthy. Check the bat-tery, tires, wiper blades, fluids, lights, belts and hoses. Break-ing down is bad on a good day and dangerous on a bad-weath-er day. Carry a winter emergen-cy road kit: ice scraper, snow brush, cell phone with charger cord, booster cables, flashlight with extra batteries, warm clothing and blankets, a first aid kit, paper towels, candy bars, simple tools (screwdriv-ers, pliers and the like), reflec-tive triangles and clay-based kitty litter or sand to throw in front of the power wheels if you’re stuck on an icy incline and can’t get traction.

Comanche Nation Fitness Center Workout Warriors 2012

8-WEEK WORKOUT CHALLENGEJanuary 9-March 3

Pre-Screening January 9-10Three 50-minute workout sessions a

weekatthefitnesscenterIncentives for most weight loss, most

BMI loss and othersFor more information, call George Tahdooahnippah, (580) 492-3816

Submitted by CONEI Staff


Programs

October 2011 marked the beginning of the second year of operation for the Co-manche Nation’s Vocational Rehabilitation Program. The first year of operation involved a lot of start up activities/re-quirements, such as hiring qualified staff and setting up the office space. Although, there was a delay in start up, program objectives were met, due to the diligence of the pro-gram staff. The following is information taken from the program bro-chure. “ Are you looking for a job and have a disability?”Frequently Asked QuestionsHow do vocational rehabilita-tive services help?• They help people with disabilities find a job and stay employed.• They help people with disabilities learn the skills needed to live independently.Can a person with a severe dis-ability get services?• Any person with a dis-ability which affects their em-ployment can apply for servic-es, no matter how severe.How long will it take before I know if I am eligible for ser-vices?• After you apply, in most cases, you will know within 60 days.

Eligibility Requirements• Must be enrolled in a federally recognized Tribe (have a CDIB) and reside with-in the program service area.• Must have a physical or mental disability documented by a physician.• Disability must be an impediment to employment.• Must be able to benefit from VR services, resulting in obtaining/retaining competi-tive employment or enhancing current employment.• Must reside within the

Comanche Nation Vocational Rehabilitation Program Going Strong

Comanche Nation’s nine coun-ty jurisdiction area.

Examples of Disabilities• Amputations• Diabetes• Hearing Impairments• Learning Disabilities• Mental Health Disor-ders• Orthopedic Impair-ments• Visual Impairments• Hypertension• Or other physical or mental impairment

Examples of Services Provided

Medical and psycho-logical evaluations are used to review an individual’s back-ground, abilities, disability-related barriers to employment and rehabilitation needs. Vocational counseling and guidance is provided by counselors throughout the re-habilitation process. Physical and mental restoration may be provided to enhance employment opportu-nities. Training may include vocational, academic and on-the-job training, as well as job search skills development and job coaching. Rehabilitation equip-ment and devices which enable individuals to function more effectively in the workplace. Other specialized ser-vices are also available.

What documents will I need?

• Proof of Tribal mem-bership• Proof of Income• Proof of Social Secu-rity number• Proof of physical ad-dress(P.O. Box not accepted)• Proof of Disability

Coordinative Efforts The Oklahoma Trib-al Vocational Rehabilitation

Programs have a cooperative agreement with the State to ac-cess and utilize available state services for tribal consumer applicants. Throughout the years, Native Americans have been under served through DRS. The State DRS (Dept. of Rehabilitative Services) is willing to co-serve applicants of the Tribal VR program. The CNVRP also works closely with available tribal programs to enhance the service delivery process for consumer appli-cants.Counties Serviced• Comanche• Caddo• Cotton • Grady• Jackson• Jefferson• Kiowa• Stephens• TillmanCNVRP Location Mailing address:

P.O. Box 908, Lawton, OK 73502

Physical address: 584 NW Bingo Rd.,

Lawton, OK 73507Telephone Numbers

(580) 492-3605

Admin. Assistant Rose Lomavaya-(580) 492-3606

Director-Charlotte Niyah McCurtain (580) 492-3609

Counselor-James Campbell-(580) 492-3610

VR Tech-Calvert Codynah- (580) 492-5310 FAX number-(580) 492-6310

Email: Voc-rehab@comanchenation.

com Please contact our main telephone number, (580) 492-3605 for additional infor-mation about the Comanche Nation’s Vocational Rehabili-tation Program.

Comanche Nation Environmental Programs

The Solid waste division will be on hold with the department dump trailer service until February.

For more information, feel free to contact the Environmental Pro-

grams Department, (580) 492-3754

Photos by Candace Wilson/ News Staff

CAMERON UNIVERSITY DONATES TO WOMEN’S SHELTER. On Dec. 5, Cam-eron University’s Biology De-partment, Biology Club, and Southwest Area Health Edu-cation Center donated clothes, toys, and candy to the Coman-che Nation Women’s Shelter. Amanda Torczynski and Dr. Tahzeeba Hossain coordinated the project to help the Wom-en’s Shelter.

BAM BAM POW!!!! On Dec. 1, the Comanche Nation Po-lice Department participated in one of their annual gun qualifi-cations.

Each year the CNPD (Comanche Nation Police De-partment) uses either the Wal-ters or Caddo Kiowa Techni-cal Center’s shooting range to train.

Comanche Nation Po-lice Department has four of their own instructors, which are Detective Captain Wood, Canine Officer Kennedy, As-

Comanche Nation Law Enforcement Passes

FirearmQualificationssistant Chief Niedo, and Portal Sergeant Hayden.

The officers partici-pate in the Oklahoma qualify-ing test, which is once a year and they must score a 240. The Federal qualifying is required twice a year, and they must score a 210. The gun qualifi-cations are a requirement so the Comanche Nation Police Department can successfully maintain their weapons. Dur-ing these tests, they must also qualify to handle and maintain patrol rifles and shot guns.

Story and Photos by Candace Wilson/ News Staff

Eachofficertakesturnsindifferentshootingstationsfortrainingtoen-hance their full shooting capabilities.

A S S O C I A T I O N O F C O M A N C H E E M P L O Y E E S C O M A N C H E N A T I O N C O M P L E X

* P . O . B O X 9 0 8 , L A W T O N , O K 7 3 5 0 2 *

November 17, 2011 Press Release: On behalf of the Association of Comanche Employees (A.C.E) and the Comanche Nation Prevention & Recovery Center, we would like to thank everyone in supporting the recognition of Red Ribbon Week to educate our Native American Youth about drug abuse prevention. It is with great pleasure to declare the First Annual Jamboree a success. Many students conveyed their enthusiasm for the event and stated that they would love to attend the Jamboree next year. The school chaperones and presenters acknowledged that the students were paying attention, participating, and enjoying themselves. If we were able to enlighten even one student, the event can be considered a huge accomplishment.

We appreciate the selfless contributions that were made to our children to prepare them for the future. Without the assistance of the following departments and individuals, this event would not have been possible. We cannot express the appropriate gratitude for their generous gifts and their desire to volunteer.

Volunteer Coordinators:

Hazel Tahsequah – Prescription Assistance Tracy Avila – Student Services Danielle Jane Tenequer – Human Resources SoSo Lyles – Maintenance Carlene Collins – Injury Prevention Keith Yackeyonny – Workforce Investment (WIA) Nick Hare – Information Technology Charles Crutcher – Information Technology Donations: Comanche Nation Law Enforcement Comanche Nation Youth Program Comanche Nation Prescription Assistance Comanche Nation Election Board Comanche Nation Enrollment Amos Black III, Attorney at Law Buffalo Office Supplies Again, thank you very much. Janet Saupitty ACE President

Comanche Nation Elder Council Annual Christmas Gathering

The Comanche Nation Elder Council held it’s Annual Christmas Gathering on Dec. 5, at the Comanche Nation Community Center in Apache, Okla. The invocation was given by Virgie Kassanavoid. The Comanche Nation Chairman, Johnny Wauqua, greeted the council. Vivian Holder present-ed a gift to the former Elder Council Chairman Raymond Alamanza for five years of ser-vice to the Elder Council. The Post Oak language

class preformed a series of Christmas songs in the Coman-che language. The Cache Nazarene Church was represented by Bill Wermy. The Deyo Baptist Church rendered some Christ-mas songs. Ava Doty spoke about her term as Elder Council Chairman. Gene Pekah spoke to the council about the Coman-che Nation College. Rita Coosewoon spoke about the Comanche language

and sang a song in the Coman-che language. Special gifts were giv-en out to the eldest woman, which was Inez Motah and to eldest man, which was Ken-neth Coosewoon. There was a total of 126 persons attending the gath-ering. The council received 16 names of shut-ins that will be given Christmas packages. The Comanche Nation Elder Council thanks everyone who helped in the gathering.

Submitted by Charlotte McCurtain/Vocational Rehabilitation Program

Submitted by the Comanche Nation Elders Council

MilitaryJanuary 2012 6 The Comanche Nation News

Submitted by Lanny Asepermy/CIVA

IN THE TRADITION OF THE PUKUTSI

In the book “THE CO-MANCHES, Lords of the South Plains,” first published in 1952 and co-written by Ernest Wal-lace and E. Adamson Hoebel, there is a reference about a Co-manche Warrior known as Pu-kutsi. This is an excerpt from the book. “Among many of the Plains tribes there were “Crazy warriors” who did everything backwards. The Cheyenne called them Contrary Ones; the Crow Indians name was Crazy Dogs Wishing to Die, The Comanches, had a few of these men, called Pukutsi. Any man brave enough and desiring to do so could be-come a Pukutsi on making up his mind, according to Frank Moeta (also spelled Moetah, Moeteh, born 1863, and a po-litical rival of Quanah Parker in the reservation era). He car-ried a buffalo-scrotum rattle in his hand and would go about the camp singing even when other events would be going on. Everything he did was in inversion, but no one ever mo-lested a Pukutsi because he was so recklessly brave. He wore a long sash over his shoulder and rolled up under his arm. In battle, he rolled out his sash, stuck the free end into the ground with an arrow and there took his stand. With bow in one hand and rattle in the other he stood singing tethered by his sash. He neither fought nor charged but sang his songs until victory was won or death took him. Only a friend could come and free him. There were not many of these men among the Co-manches. Carrying Her Sun-shade in all her long life know only one.” This tribute salutes modern-day Comanche Veter-ans who have distinguished themselves in combat with Gallantry, Heroism or Valor in the tradition of the Pukutsi of old. In the days before res-ervation life and the present-day Armed Forces, all Coman-ches (Numunu as they called themselves) men were hunters, raiders, and warriors - from birth they were one or in most cases all three. They provided food, clothing, shelter for their families and bands and protect-ed them, along with Comanche territories from the Spanish, Mexicans, the Texans, numer-ous other tribes and the US military. The days as hunters, raiders and warriors came to an end at Palo Duro Canyon in September 1874 when the US Cavalry defeated the remain-ing “hostile” Comanches in a brief battle. The last “hostile” Comanches turned themselves in at Fort Sill in Nov. 1874 since. The Comanche Tribe’s modern day military history began when a few Coman-ches served as scouts with the US Cavalry in the 1870’s and again at Fort Sill with Troop L, 7th Cavalry from 1892-1897. 58 Comanches served in World War I (1918 - 1919) and Co-manche warriors have since fought in every war and major campaign of the United States military. The Pukutsi in today’s Comanche military history is much like the Pukutsi of old - anyone could be a Pukutsi

but few have actually proved themselves on the battlefield. Documentation indi-cates 1,050 Comanches have served in the Armed Forces. 17 have earned honors for Gallantry, Heroism or Valor. The military has few awards for such honors - beside the Congressional Medal of Hon-or, which no Comanche has earned, the awards are the Dis-tinguished Service, Air Force and Navy Crosses (no Coman-ches have earned the Air Force or Navy Crosses), the Silver Star, the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Soldier’s, Air Force and Navy/Marine Corps Med-als (no Comanches has earned the Air Force medal) and the Bronze Star, Commendation and Achievement Medals with Valor Device. 15 Comanche have earned these honors in-cluding one (Clark) who was awarded three Gallantry, Her-oism and Valor awards, and three others that fought and killed the enemy in hand to hand combat - one Comanche (Choney) received both Valor honors twice and fought and killed the enemy in hand to hand combat These 17 modern-day military veterans have earned the title of Pukutsi. Listed below are the 17 Comanche veterans, who have earned Gallantry, Hero-ism and Valor honors, or have fought and killed the enemy in hand to hand combat - six are deceased.Private Calvin Atchavit (deceased), US Army, Distin-guished Service Cross, World War I (also awarded the Bel-gian War Cross for bravely).

Master Sergeant Edward L. Clark (deceased), US Marine Corps, Silver Star, Navy/Ma-rine Corps Medal and Navy/Marine Corps Commendation w/Valor Device, World War II and Korean War.Sergeant Lee D. Toquothty (deceased), US Army, Silver Star, Korean War.Sergeant George Red Elk, US Army, Silver Star, Vietnam War.

Lieutenant Colonel Meech

Tahsequah ( deceased), US Army Air Force, Distin-guished Flying Cross, World War II.Major Vincent Myers Sr. (de-ceased), US Army Air Force, Distinguished Flying Cross, World War II.Brigadier General Jonathan George, US Air Force, Distin-guished Flying Cross.

Sergeant Major Rudolph Kosechequetah, US Army, Solider’s Medal, Vietnam War.

Captain Cloyce V. “Chuck” Choney, US Army, Bronze Star with Valor Device (2) and Hand to Hand Combat, Vietnam War.Sergeant Lucien “ Jimmy” Looking Glass, US Marine Corps, Bronze Star with/Valor Device, Vietnam War.Captain, Johnny Tiddark, US Army, Bronze Star with/Valor, Vietnam War.

Lance Corporal Phillip Rog-ers, US Marine Corps, Navy/Marine Corps Commendation with/Valor Device, Vietnam War.

Lance Corporal Lewis Chase-nah, US Marine Corps, Navy/Marine Corps Achievement with/Valor Device, Vietnam War.Corporal Leland Parker, US Marine Corps, Navy/Marine Corps Achievement with/Val-or Device, Vietnam War.Corporal Joshua J. Ware (deceased), US Marine Corps, Navy/Marine Corps Achieve-ment with/Valor Device, Global War on Terror.

Corporal Edmond L. Mah-seet, US Marine Corps, Hand to Hand Combat, Vietnam War.Sergeant Ronald “Ronnie” Mahsetky, US Marine Corps, Hand to Hand Combat, Viet-nam War.

The Distinguished Ser-vice Cross Medal is awarded to a person who distinguishes himself or herself by extraor-dinary heroism not justifying the award of the Medal of Honor.

Distinguished Service Cross

Private Calvin Atcha-vit was awarded the Distin-guished Service Cross - his action reads “The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Private Cal-vin Atchavit (ASN 2806696), United States Army, for ex-traordinary heroism in action while serving with Company A, 357th Infantry Regiment, 90th Division, AEF., near Fey-en-Haye, France, 12 Sep-tember 1918. During the at-tack of his company, though he had been severely wounded in his left arm, Private Atcha-vit shot and killed one of the enemy and captured another. Atchavit served in the US Army from 1918-1919 and was also awarded the Purple Heart and the War Cross for bravery by the Belgium gov-

ernment. He was one of four World War I Comanche Code Talkers and was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal of Honor (posthumously) in Oct. 2008. Atchavit was born on Jun. 20, 1893 and died on Oct. 9, 1943 at age 50 - his final resting place is Highland Cem-etery, in Lawton, Okla. In a copy of his obituary, provided by his nephew, Robert Atchavit of Wichita Falls, Tx., it stated in part “the service was con-ducted at the Yellow Mission (now known as Comanche Re-formed Church) in Lawton of-ficiated by Robert Chaat and his pallbearers were Albert Nahquaddy, Henry Permansu and Bruce Tomah of Walters, Sam Mullen, Ed Clark and Henry Conwoop of Lawton, Mose Poolaw of Walters as-sisted, (his pallbearers were all World War I combat veterans). He was a member of the tribal council of the Kiowa jurisdic-tion, representing the Coman-ches in business matters. Ac-tive in church work, he was an elder of the Dutch Reform church in Lawton. The Amer-ican Flag was presented to his widow, Sarah, by Tomah and the service was attended by a large crowd of Comanches, Kiowas and Apaches.”

Calvin Atchavit

War Cross

Silver Star Medals for Gallantry in Action against an enemy of the United States was awarded to Edward L. Clark, Lee D. Toquothty and George Red Elk.

Silver Star

Master Sergeant Ed-ward L. Clark, while serving with the 1st Marine Division in the Pacific during World War II, received his Silver Star for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against enemy Japanese on Pelellu Island, Palau Group on Sept. 19, 1944 - he also received the

Edward Clark

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Purple Heart as he was gravely wounded in the chest during the action. His citation reads “Gunnery Sergeant Clark was in charge of the company command post which was lo-cated ten yards in the rear of the front lines of a Marine rifle company. Immediately prior to an impending attack by the company the enemy laid down a violent and devastating bar-rage of artillery and mortar fire along the lines. Gunnery Sergeant Clark observing two men lying wounded in a lis-tening post beyond our troops dashed forward fearlessly, headless of the heavy con-centrations of high explosive falling close at had and car-ried one unconscious man to the command post. In so do-ing he was gravely wounded in the chest. Disregarding his wounds and refreshing aid, he ran forward a second time through the fire swept zone and rescued the second wounded man. His total dis-regard for his own safety and his cool courage under fire unquestionably saved the lives of the two Marines.” Clark was also awarded the Navy/Marine Corps Medal for distinguishing oneself by heroism not involving actual conflict with an enemy and the Navy/Marine Corps Commen-dation Medal w/Valor Device for heroic achievement. He served in the US Marine Corps from 1933-1954. After his retirement, he earned a college degree and was the Superintendent at both Concho and Fort Sill Indian Schools. He was also an elect-ed member of the Comanche Business Committee. Clark was born April 19, 1914 and died on Feb. 28, 2002 at age 87 in Oklahoma City. His final resting place is Highland Cemetery in Lawton, Okla.

Sergeant Lee D. To-quothty was a member of the US Army’s 7th Reconnais-sance Company of the 7th Infantry Division, during the Korean War, when he was awarded the Silver Star for gallantry in action against an armed enemy near Ho-engsong Korea on Feb. 12, 1951. His citation reads, “On this date, Corporal Toquothty, a tank crew member was rid-ing in a convoy which was attempting to escape entrap-ment by numerically superior enemy forces. As the convoy moved into the town of Hoen-song, the column came under intense small arms, automat-ic weapons and mortar fire from well entrenched enemy troops. The vehicle Corpo-ral Toquothty was riding was knocked out by enemy troops hidden in the rice paddies and ditches along the road. Cor-poral Toquothty immediately seized a light machine gun and single-handedly began to move along the column firing his weapon from the hip. On the final of four roadblocks Corporal Toquothty moved among the hidden enemy and

pinned them down with furi-ous fire, thus allowing the ve-hicles to proceed. As the last vehicle cleared the position, he remained in position to cover the rear of the column firing his machine gun until heat from the weapon ignited his gloves. Only when it was apparent that all troops were clear of the enemy position did Corporal Toquothty withdraw to rejoin the column.” Toquothty served from 1949-1952. He was born on Sept. 7, 1930 and died on May 10, 2006 at age 75 at Shell Knob, MO. Toquothty’s parents are the late Robert and Mary (Kosechata) Toquothty of Wal-ters.

Lee D. Toquothty

Sergeant George G. Red Elk was with Company D, 1st Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, during the Vietnam War, when he was awarded the Silver Star for gal-lantry in action while engaged in military operations involv-ing conflict with an armed hostile force on Mar. 18,1969. Like Clark, he was severely wounded during the fight. His citation reads “On this date, Company D was conducting a sweep through the Michelin Rubber Plantation when fierce contact was made with an estimated battalion-size force of North Vietnamese Regulars in well-concealed, bunker fortifications. In the ensuing battle, Sergeant Red Elk’s tank began receiving rocket-propelled grenade fire from the left flank. React-ing instantly, Sergeant Red Elk aggressively maneuvered his vehicle toward the enemy position, engaging them with his main gun. His highly ac-curate fire completely routed the enemy force, killing two. As he moved back on line, an enemy rocket-propelled gre-nade round exploded over-head, severely wounding his right hand. Ignoring the pain, Sergeant Red Elk was successful in knocking out a second rocket-propelled gre-nade team. He courageously remained in his tank for 45 minutes after being wounded, until he passed out from the pain and loss of blood. His heroic example greatly in-spired the entire unit to press on and completely overpower the hostile force.” Red Elk served with the US Army from 1968-1973 and with Oklahoma Army Na-tional Guard from 1982-1991. He lives in Lawton with his wife, of 40 years, Fran. Red Elk also fought in the Persian Gulf War with the 45th Infan-try Brigade and is currently the Commander of the Comanche Indian Veterans Association. He is the son of the late Roderick Red Elk, a Code Talker of World War II. Red Elk was inducted into the Oklahoma Military Hall of Fame on Nov. 11, 2011.

George Red Elk

The Distinguished Flying Cross Medal is award-ed heroism or extraordinary achievement while participat-ing in an aerial flight.

Lieutenant Colonel Meech Tahsequah enlisted in the US Army Air Force on July 14, 1941. His Distinguished Flying Cross citation(s) were not located at the time this ar-ticle went to print, however, the “Korean War Project” and “airforce.togetherweserved.com” websites both indicate he was awarded the Distin-guished Flying Cross. “air-force.togetherweserved.com” lists two of his awards as the Distinguished Flying Cross (2) and Presidential Unit Cita-tion. The “Korean War Proj-ect” credits him with one Dis-tinguished Flying Cross. In Europe he flew 31 combat missions logging over 300 combat hours aboard a B-24 Liberator Bomber. He was wounded twice in action over the European Theater of Operations. He flew on the Ploesti Raids in 1943, called “Operation Tidal Wave,” and earlier as part of the Halver-son Detachment/Project. According to Air Force records, Tahsequah was a pas-senger aboard a B-26B aircraft when it ran out of fuel and crashed 30 miles north of Susa North Korea, near Tsushima Island, on Dec. 6, 1950. The navigator, who bailed out and made his way to friendly lines, said Tahsequah and the other crew members bailed out be-fore crashing. It was thought at one time he was a prisoner of war as his name was mentioned by North Korea propaganda in Dec. 1951. He remains one of the many missing in action in North Korea. Tahsequah was de-clared dead while missing in action on Feb. 28, 1954 - his body has not been recovered. He was born on Oct. 27, 1918.

Meech Tahsequah

Major Vincent Myers Sr. served in the US Army Air Force from 1941-1946. His citation, as a member of the 340th Bombardment Group (M), for the Distinguished Fly-ing Cross reads “For extraor-dinary achievement while participating in aerial flight

Vincent Myers Sr.

Brigadier General Jonathan George, served with the US Air Force, from 1981 to 2011. His citation for the Distinguished Flying Cross reads “Captain Jonathan D. George distinguished himself by heroism while participat-ing in aerial flight as a U-2 pilot at a forward operating location of the 9th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing on 4 May 1986. Approximately two hours into his first operation-al mission, Captain George’s aircraft suddenly developed full nose down, runaway trim while cruising above 60,000 feet. Maximum allowable speed was quickly exceeded and structural failure and loss of the aircraft was imminent. In this extremely critical over-

speed condition, the successful dive recovery required a tight-rope combination of strength to correct the aircraft attitude and finesse to avoid stalling the aircraft. During the re-mainder of the descent, con-stant yoke pressures varying between 70 and 200 pounds brought Captain George to the brink of physical exhaustion. He exercised exceptional fly-ing skill, strength and heroic determination, safely landed the aircraft, and prevented the loss of an irreplaceable na-tion asset. The outstanding heroism and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Captain George reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force. George was also award-ed the Bronze Star Medal. He is the great grand-son of Quanah Parker (his great grandmother was Weckeah). George retired from the US Air Force on Feb. 1, 2011 after over 30 years of service. He is the most decorated Co-manche officer and is the only Comanche to earn Gen-eral Officer status - he turned down a promotion to Major General in lieu of retirement. George now resided in Heltonville, Ind., and is run-ning for the US Congress.

Jonathan George

The Soldier’s and Navy/Marine Corps Medals are awarded for distinguish-ing oneself by heroism not in-volving actual conflict with an enemy.

Soldier’s Medal USN/USMC Medal

Rudolph Kosechequetah

Sergeant Major Ru-dolph Kosechequetah retired from the US Army after serv-ing from 1968-1995. He was awarded the Soldier’s Medal while serving with HQ’s 1st Brigade, 5th Infantry Division in Vietnam. His citation reads “For heroism not involving actual conflict with an armed hostile force. Private First Class Kosechequetah distin-guished himself by exception-ally valorous actions on 13 July 1969 when was given the mission of apprehending Viet-namese who were throwing fragmentation grenades into the perimeter wire at Land-ing Zone Sharon. Specialist Four Young and Private First Class Kosechequetah iden-tified the Vietnamese at the crest of a small hill, parked their vehicle at the edge of a lake and started up the hill. At this time Specialist Young was blown from his feet by a mine. Private First Class Koseche-quetah was thrown back to the edge of the lake by the con-cussion, receiving shrapnel wounds in the head and in the

as bombardier of a B-52 type aircraft. On 24 April 1944, Captain Myers flew as group bombardier in an attack upon the heavily defended railroad bridge at Orvieto, North Italy. Upon the commencement of the bomb run, direct hits from intense anti-aircraft fire criti-cally wounded the turret-gun-ner and heavily damaged his airplane. Despite the extreme difficulty of maintaining the crippled aircraft on straight and level course, Captain My-ers skillfully directed his pilot on the precision bomb run, en-abling his formation to cover the objective with a devastat-ing bomb pattern. When me-chanical failure prevented the lowering of the landing gear upon the approach to base, Captain Myers assisted other members of the crew in work-ing the emergency release sys-tem thereby enabling his pilot to land the stricken bomber safely. On 45 combat mis-sions his steadfast devotion to duty and outstanding pro-ficiency have reflected great credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.” In a hand-written note on his Restricted Missions Sheet indicate a second Dis-tinguished Flying Cross was awarded to Myers for action on Dec. 30, 1944 on a target near Calliano, Italy - that cita-tion is unavailable. Myers was Bombardier and Navigator aboard a B-52 Mitchell Medium Bomber and flew 71 combat missions total-ing 220 combat hours during World War II - once 50 combat missions were completed air crewmen were given “ground duty,” Myers volunteered to fly an additional 21 missions until war’s end. His brother, Melvin, was killed in action shortly after the D-Day invasion on Normandy. Myers was induct-ed into the Oklahoma Boxing Hall of Fame in 1976 with an amazing 114 wins and six loss record. He served on the Co-manche Housing Board of Commissioners and farmed west of Apache until his death on Aug. 2, 1979 at age 59, he was born on April 20, 1920.

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face. Specialist Young yelled that he was in an unmarked mine field. At this time Private First Class Kosechequetah, in spite of Specialist Young’s pleas to stay away and with complete disregard for his own safety, re-entered the mine field, picked up Special-ist Young, placed him on his shoulders, and carried him to a position of safety. Here he administered first aid, treat-ing the nearly unconscious soldier for shock. He stayed at the wounded soldier’s side for 20-minutes, completely ignoring his own wounds, until trained medical person-nel arrived to treat and evacu-ate Specialist Young. Private First Class Kosechequetah’s bravery and compassion for a fellow soldier in the face of immense personal danger re-flect the highest credit upon himself, the Military Police Corps, and the United States Army”. Kosechequetah was also awarded the Bronze Star for his service in Vietnam. He is one of two Comanches to earn the rank of Sergeant Ma-jor and graduate from the US Army Sergeants Major Acad-emy. Kosechequetah is a strong advocate for the Salva-tion Army and lives between Cache and Altus near the west-ern end of the Wichita Moun-tains.

Bronze Star The Bronze Star, Com-mendation and Achievement medals are awarded for heroic or meritorious achievement or service. For heroic achieve-ment a V Device (for Valor) is attached to the award.

Cloyce V. “Chuck” Choney

Captain Cloyce V. “Chuck” Choney served with the US Army from 1969-1975. He was awarded the Bronze Star three times - twice with/Valor Device, the Purple Heart twice, the Presidential Unit Citation (the equivalent to the Distinguished Service Cross) and the Combat Infantryman Badge while serving with the 101st Airborne Division. The first of his two ci-tations reads “For heroism in ground combat against a hos-tile force in the Republic of Vietnam on 1 May 1970. Lieu-tenant Choney distinguished himself while serving as a Platoon Leader in Company B, 1st Battalion (Airmobile), 506th Infantry, during com-bat operations near Fire Sup-port Base Maureen, Republic of Vietnam. While receiving a resupply from a nearby land-ing zone, Lieutenant Choney’s

platoon was attacked by a squad of North Vietnamese Infantrymen using machine guns and rocket-propelled grenades. Lieutenant Choney immediately organized his men for a counter-assault. Although wounded himself, he refused medical evacuation until the enemy was repulsed and his men had been cared for. Lieutenant Choney’s per-sonal bravery and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the mili-tary service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army”. Choney’s second cita-tion reads “For heroism in ground combat against a hos-tile force in the Republic of Vietnam on 6 July 1970. Lieu-tenant Choney distinguished himself while serving as a Platoon Leader in Company B, 1st Battalion (Airmobile), 506th Infantry, during com-bat action near Fire Support Base Maureen, Republic of Vietnam. Coming under sud-den attack by a large hostile force, Lieutenant Choney was seriously wounded. Despite his wounds, he immediately organized his men and led a counterassault on the hostiles. Moving from position to po-sition under constant enemy fire he was assured that all other casualties were treated. Lieutenant Choney’s personal bravery and devotion to duty were in keeping with the high-est traditions of the military service and reflect grant credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army”. After his military ser-vice Choney served with the Federal Bureau of Investiga-tion (FBI) for 25+ years - he was decorated with the Bu-reau’s Shield of Bravery for his role in the rescue mission after the Murrah Building bombing in Oklahoma City. Choney also served as the Vice-Chairman of the Na-tional Indian Gaming Commis-sion for five years. He lives in Shawnee.

Lucien “Jimmy” Looking Glass

Sergeant Lucien “Jimmy” Looking Glass, US Marine Corps, was awarded the Bronze Star with/Valor Device. His citation reads “For heroic achievement in connection with operations against insurgent communist (Viet Cong) forces in the Re-public of Vietnam while serv-ing with Company F, Second Battalion, Ninth Marines. On 30 Jan. 1966, Lance Corpo-ral Lookingglass, serving as a Fire Team Leader with the Second Platoon, was oper-ating with a combat patrol when it was ambushed by a numerically superior enemy force. In the midst of intense enemy small arms and mortar fire, Lance Corporal Looking-glass shot and killed the Viet Cong, and, with complete disregard for his own safety, ran to the side of his fallen comrade. Realizing that the savage action ruled out im-

mediate first aid treatment, he picked up the wounded Ma-rine and courageously carried him through the withering fire to a position of relative safe-ty. He then treated the casu-alty until he was relieved by a corpsman. His valiant effort undoubtedly saved the life of his comrade. Lance Corpo-ral Lookingglass’ exceptional courage in the face of grave danger, daring initiative, and unfaltering dedication to duty reflected great credit upon him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the Unit-ed States Naval Service. The Combat Distinguishing De-vice is authorized.” Looking Glass was also awarded the Presidential Unit Citation (the equivalent to the Navy Cross) and the Pur-ple Heart. On Jun. 11, 1966, Looking Glass was twice wounded - he was shot in the leg during the early hours and despite his wounds he contin-ued his mission. Later that morning he and several other Marines were wounded from shrapnel from an exploding land mine. Looking Glass served from 1961-1967. He lives in Shiprock, NM and retired from the Indian Health Service - he also worked for the Bureau of Indian Af-fairs. Looking Glass grew up in the Boone area and attended school in Apache, Okla. He is an Ordained Minister with the Full Gospel Church.

Johnny Tiddark

Navy/Marine Corps Commendation Medal

Captain Johnny Tid-dark served with the US Army from 1964-1969 and the US Army Reserve from 1970-1983. He was awarded the Bronze Star twice, once with/Valor Device. His citation reads “For heroism in con-nection with military opera-tions against a hostile force: Captain Tiddark distinguished himself by heroic action on 23 March 1969 while serving as Advisor, Quang Ngai Province Provincial Reconnaissance of Vietnam. On that date, he ac-companied a small 10-man team on an assault against a large enemy for Captain Tid-dark was assigned the respon-sibility for the left flank of the attacking force and when the order to attack was received, he personally led the team in a violent assault against the enemy positions. When the attack faltered, he rallied his men, but the heavy enemy fire forced the entire unit to

withdraw. He then personally covered the withdrawal of his team. When the reconnais-sance element was reinforced by a Vietnamese Regional Forces company, Captain Tid-dark again led the combined force in an attack against the hostile positions. Due to his demonstrated courage under fire, the Vietnamese followed his example and the attack ad-vanced four hundred meters, overrunning several enemy positions before the enemy’s resistance stiffened and the attack faltered. Upon seeing several Vietnamese soldiers wounded by the intense en-emy automatic weapons fire, Captain Tiddark moved to the threatened area and directed friendly fire upon the enemy positions. He moved from man to man shouting encour-agement and due to his fear-less actions, the Vietnamese held the position. Captain Tiddark’s heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Army and reflect great credit upon himself and the military service”. Tiddark was also awarded the Combat Infan-tryman Badge and was twice-wounded while assigned to the Phoenix Program during the Vietnam War. His mission with the Phoenix Program was to identify and neutralize the Viet Cong infrastructure political Cadre via infiltration, capture, counter-terrorism and assassination. Tiddark retired from Veterans Affairs as Registered Pharmacists and Manager of the out-patient Pharmacy Pro-gram at the Dallas VA Hospi-tal. He live in Forney, Tx.

Phillip K. Rogers Sr.

Navy/Marine Corps Achievement Medal

Lance Corporal Phil-lip K. Rogers Sr., US Marine Corps, was awarded the USN/USMC Commendation Medal with/Valor Device while as-signed with Lima Company, 3rd Battalion, 26th Marines during the Vietnam War. A memo dated 8 February 1969, addressed to Rogers reads:

From: Commanding General, Fleet Marine Force, PacificTo: Lance Corporal Phillip K. Rogers,Subject: Award of the Navy Commendation Medal with

Combat “V”1. In accordance with the

authority delegated by the Commanding Gen-eral, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific takes pleasure in awarding you the Navy Commendation Medal with Combat “V”.

2. In recognition of your heroic achievement in connection with opera-tions against insurgent communist (Viet Cong) forces in the Republic of Vietnam.

In a document written by Rogers he said, “I earned the Navy Commendation Medal during an incident that occurred while on patrol near Da Nang. My squad was walking point when we came upon a rice paddy. The North Vietnamese opened fire with mortars, machine guns and automatic weapons. Several Marines were wounded and needed to rescued. My Fire Team (I was the Team Lead-er), volunteered to bring the wounded Marines to safety. Despite taking fire I was able to assist in saving two of the wounded Marines. While carrying one of them on my shoulder he was hit again in the leg. Miraculously I was not injured and all the men we assisted to safety survived the fight”. While in Vietnam, Rogers survived the 77-day siege of Khe Sanh and the Tet Offensive of 1968. He was also awarded the Presidential Unit Citation (the equivalent to the Navy Cross), Purple Heart and Combat Action Ribbon. Rog-ers is credited with 37 combat operations and completed 11 months and three days of his tour in Vietnam when he was wounded. He served from 1967-1969. Rogers lives in Kyle, Tx. His grandfather was Ama-dor Torralba (Farrala). His mother was Sophia Torralba Rodriguez (Rogers) who was raised by Juanita Grey Moun-tain (Esa-Toyah) Torralba.

Lewis Chasenah Lance Corporal Lewis Chasenah, US Marine Corps, was awarded the USN/USMC Achievement Medal with/Valor Device. A copy of his citation was unavailable at the time this article was printed, however, this award is so not-ed on his DD 214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty). He served, in Vietnam, from Dec. 1967 to Jan. 1968 with A Battery, 1st Battalion, 11th Marines, 1st Marine Divi-sion as an Artillery Gun Crew-man on a 105 mm Howitzer. Chasenah also earned three Campaign Stars and the Combat Action Ribbon, while in Vietnam, for extensive direct combat support, including the 77-day siege at Khe Sanh and the Tet Offensive of 1968, and for action at Quang Tri, Dong Ha, Cam Lo, Con Thein, Hue,


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Highway Named after Fallen Soldier

On Nov. 16, Highway 64, which runs from Roland, Okla., to the Arkansas border, was named the CPL Joshua Jerald Ware Memorial Highway. Ware was killed in action on Nov. 16, 2005. Ware graduated from Roland High School in 2002, but lived most of his life in Apache, Okla. The Native American Ma-rines and the Kiowa Black Leggins Warrior Society assisted the Comanche Indian Veterans Association with the colors for the event.

Hill 81, Ohu Bai and Da Nang. He served from 1967-1970. He lives in Lawton and works for the Fort Sill Apache Casino.

Leland Parker Corporal Leland Parker, US Marine Corps, was awarded the USN/USMC Achievement Medal with/Val-or Device. His citation reads “While serving with Compa-ny D, 1st Battalion, 4th Ma-rines, 3rd Marine Division in connection with operations against the enemy in the Re-public of Vietnam from 2 No-vember 1967 to 23 November 1968, Lance Corporal per-formed his duties in a exem-plary manner. As a Grena-dier, he displayed outstanding professionalism and initia-tive despite extremely adverse conditions and difficulties of a combat environment. Distin-guishing himself by his con-sistently high level of efficien-cy, he materially enhanced the operational effectiveness and combat readiness of his unit. Exhibiting exceptional professional ability, he skill-fully provided timely, accurate fire support for his unit and repeatedly distinguished him-self by his courage and com-posure under fire. As a result of his diligence and seemingly unlimited resourcefulness, he gained the respect and admi-ration of all who observed him and contributed significantly to the accomplishment of his unit’s mission. Lance Cor-poral Parker’s outstanding professional ability, untiring determination and steadfast devotion to duty reflect great credit upon himself, the Ma-rine Corps and the Naval Ser-vice - Lance Corporal Parker is authorized to wear the Com-bat “V”. Parker served from 1967-1970. Parker was an Infan-tryman and was wounded on March 20, 1968 by mortar shrapnel in his upper leg near Con Thein. Parker also earned the Combat Action Ribbon. He is a flute player and artist and an advocate for vet-erans benefits and a member of the “Warriors Group” at the Veterans Affairs Medical Cen-ter in Oklahoma City. Parker lives in Okla-homa City.

Joshua Jerald Ware

Corporal Jerald Josh-ua “Josh” Ware, US Marine Corps, was awarded the USN/USMC Achievement Medal with/Combat Distinguishing Device (posthumously). His citation reads “Heroic achieve-ment as Fire Team Leader, 2d Platoon, Company F, Battal-ion Landing Team 2/1, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit,

Regimental Combat Team 2, 2d Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force (For-ward) in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom 04-06 from 5 to 16 November 2005 in the Al Qa’Im region, Iraq, during Operation Steel Curtain, Cor-poral Ware led his Fire Team in clearing over 200 building on 16 November. He led his team into a fortified position held by five insurgents who targeted the hallway and inte-rior rooms with grenades and automatic weapons. As his team made entry, they were engaged by grenades and small arms fire, fatally wound-ing Corporal Ware. Corporal Ware’s courageous efforts were critical to the Company’s success in breaking the enemy defense and killing 18 insur-gents throughout the opera-tion. Corporal Ware’s initia-tive, courage and devotion to duty reflected credit upon himself and upheld the high-est traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service”. Ware was born on May 25, 1985 and will forever be 20 years old. He was also awarded the Combat Action Ribbon (2) and Purple Heart. Ware is descendent of the Tate, Yellowfish and Parker families. On Nov. 16, 2011 the city of Roland, Okla., named a stretch of Highway 64 in his honor. His final resting place is Rainey Mountain Cemetery west of Mountain View.

In the tradition of the Pukutsi, three Comanches fought and killed the enemy in hand to hand combat. The book Young Blood, a History of the 1st Battalion, 27th Ma-rines written by Gary E. Jarvis, Ph.D., Weapons Platoon Delta Company, 1st Battalion, 27th Marines. The book vividly de-scribes this type of courageous combat between the Marines and North Vietnam Army and Viet Cong. The following ex-cerpt details just one encounter that took place on May 5, 1968 - the battle became known as Mini Tet which involved Sergeant Ronald “Ronnie or Shot-Ke” Mahsetky and Lance Corporal Edmond L. “Eddie” Mahseet as they were in a fight for their lives with North Viet-namese Regulars about 2.5 miles east of Hue City on a nar-row dirt road called highway 552 on that date.

The fight started about 3 a.m. that morning. The au-thor wrote: “The skipper’s radioman LCpl Edmond L. Mahseet, while searching for a radio, was fighting hand to hand combat on the eastern sector of the perimeter, which was infested with NVA soldiers that had penetrated the perim-eter boundaries. Even though it was dark, the silhouette of LCpl Mahseet’s real eagle feather attached to his helmet made it relatively easy to dis-

tinguish Little Chief (as Eddie was called) from the enemy as he battled the NVA. Mahseet courageously silenced many of the loud yells emanating from the attacking NVA sol-diers”. “Mahseet was told to go get a PRC-25 radio because his radio had been hit. As he left the company Command Post and got no more than 50 feet on the east side of the pe-rimeter, he encountered NVA soldiers coming out of a ditch near where other Marines were in defensive positions. Mahseet fired his M-16 and emptied the magazine. Before he could reload, a NVA sol-dier was right on top of him, Mahseet hit the NVA soldier across the face with the butt of his rifle and stabbed him in the throat with his K-Bar. Another NVA soldier came at him, Mahseet grabbed his AK-47, as he fired - the rounds went up into the air, he then stabbed him with his K-Bar in the chest and throat. Mahseet then used the dead NVA sol-dier’s AK-47 to shoot another NVA soldier, and fired at other NVA soldiers approaching the perimeter from out of the rice paddies on the eastside of the perimeter. After Mahseet fired all the rounds in the magazine of the AK-47, he threw the empty rifle down and returned to the Command Post and in-formed the Company Com-mander that the enemy had penetrated the perimeter”. In a personal interview with Mahseet, he said, “The fight was total chaos, it was dark except for the illumina-tion of parachute and hand flares, green (enemy) and red (friendly) tracer rounds were being fired everywhere, Marines and the enemy yell-ing and screaming, artillery rounds, rocketed propelled grenades, stashed charges and hand grenades exploding inside and outside the perim-eter. It was living hell. Mean-while, Mahsetky (Big Chief as he was called) was fighting on the opposite end of the perim-eter. I heard he was “hit” and ran over a quarter of a mile fighting off the enemy before finding Mahsetky in his “fight-ing hole” smoking a cigarette. When I told Mahsetky I heard he was “hit,” Mahsetky said he was okay and was just tak-ing a short break. After we took a short “smoke” together

Edmond “Eddie” Mahseet

we continued with the fight of our lives. The author continues “The fight lasted until 6 a.m. The defense of the Marine outpost and the defeat of the numerically superior NVA force were not achieved with-out significant costs. Marine casualties were listed at 24 killed or wounded in action, while NVA losses were esti-mated 60 killed.” Both Mahsetky and Mahseet did two tours of duty in Vietnam - they served to-gether during their second tour. They each fought in over 25 combat operations including hand to hand contact with the enemy as their positions were “over-run” on at least four other occasions. They were awarded the Presidential Unit Citation (which warrants the same degree of gallantry as the Navy Cross) for gallantry, determination and esprit de corps in accomplishing their mission under extremely diffi-cult and hazardous conditions and the Vietnam Cross of Gal-lantry with/Palm Device for accomplished deeds of Valor and heroic Conduct while fighting the enemy of the people of the Republic of Viet-nam. They were also awarded two Combat Action Ribbons.

Ronald “Ronnie” Mahsetky

Ronald Mahsetky and Edmond Mahseet in a photo from the Stars and Stripes newspaper.

Captain Chuck Choney is also credited with killing the enemy in hand to hand combat. In a personal interview with Choney, he said, “During a fire fight with North Vietnam regulars, I had his rifle hit and shot out of my hands by a NVA round and made useless - I was then attacked by three NVA soldiers. Having nothing but my K-Bar knife as a weap-on, I grabbed the first enemy soldier and stabbed him in the throat. My radio operator shot and killed the other two enemy soldiers with his rifle”. I continued the fight with the dead NVA soldier’s AK-47 ri-fle.” Choney said, “I thought I was a goner.” He also said, “I was a little upset because I had a difficult time removing his K-Bar from the dead en-emy’s throat.”

***It is the soldier, not the reporter who has given us freedom of the pressIt is the soldier, not the poet who has given us freedom of speechIt is the soldier, not the cam-pus organizer who has given us the freedom to demon-strateIt is the soldier, not the lawyer who has given us the right to a fair trialIt is the soldier, who salutes theflag,whoservesundertheflag,andwhosecoffinisdrapedbytheflagwhoallows the protester to burn theflag

-By Charles M. Province-

Indian Man WarriorBy Kelly Haney



People,Places and Things Happening On December 7, Edwin Chappabitty, Jr., MD, Lawton, Oklahoma, filed a Federal Tort Claims Act lawsuit for monetary damages in the United States Court for the Western District of Oklahoma alleging that officials of the United States Department of Health and Human, Indian Health Service, negligently failed to follow federal laws and regu-lations governing the conduct of investigations into alleged profes-sional misconduct by physicians employed by the Indian Health Service. Dr. Chappabitty never expected to be accused of leveling racist statements to his patients on May 1, 2008 just four months from the end of his 30 year career in the federal service. Chappabitty, Comanche/Ft. Sill Apache, retired from the IHS in August 2008 as a naval captain, having come to the ser-vice as an officer in the U.S. Pub-lic Health Service Commissioned Corps, a uniformed, non-military government agency under the pur-view of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. His federal civil action was filed as a consequence of a “surprise” order given to him to appear at the DHHS Indian Health Service, Oklahoma City Area Of-fice, where he was forced under order of IHS Commission Corp Officers to answer questions about events he denied ever occurred. At the time of his April 2008 interro-gation, he was close to retirement from federal service after serving almost 25 years as a physician with the Indian Health Service. Dr. Chappabitty’s federal civil ac-tion, No. 5:11-cv-01443, was ran-domly assigned to U.S. District Court Judge David L. Russell, a U.S. Navy Veteran. In an earlier effort to set-tle his claims with the IHS, his attorney noted: “I emphasize the Agency’s dereliction of duty and negligence in protecting the pro-cedural rights of a well respected Comanche Indian physician and U.S. Army Veteran that will be proven at trial.” CAPT Chappabitty un-questionably dedicated his career to fulfilling the Mission of the IHS and caring for the health needs his own Indian People to his last day of honorable federal service. In 1983 he accepted a commission in the Public Health Service Commissioned Corps as an IHS doctor. “I came back to Law-ton, where I was born and raised and worked there for 25 years,” he says. “I enjoyed myself in the front line of medicine. I really en-joyed being a physician.” During his April 14, 2008 interrogation by federal officials holding themselves out as spe-cial agents authorized to conduct investigations, he could not leave the questioning under threat of loss of his job. After his coerced interrogation, he received a letter of reprimand on June 19, 2008 without ever seeing the standard patient complaint form that begins an investigation process where the accused is given an opportunity to contest charges of profession-al misconduct like those lodged against him by his own patients. IHS officials illegally confiscated a personal patient log kept by Dr. Chappabitty that de-prived him of his right to review his own personal observations of May 1, 2008 and refresh his memory on those events that sup-posedly occurred on that day. The personal patient log has not been returned. Dr. Chappabitty alleged in his complaint: “During the forced interrogation, CAPT Chap-pabitty was denied the right to re-view the written accusations made by the [patients] against him that should have been placed in writing

On December 6, Hope Mathews Herrera, of Okla-homa City, Okla. was awarded Parent of the Year by Oklahoma

Herrera

Tribal Children Preform with Lawton’ s Chamber Choir

Tribal members Syd-ney Burgess, Gavin Burgess, Chayton Jay and Ta Koda Jay got a chance to perform with the Country Club Heights Chimes Choir. The choir performed “Winter Wonderland” and “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” in the Lawton Pro Music Holiday Prelude, at the First Presbyterian Church. Parents are Daisy Bur-gess and Jerre Cable.

Gutierrez

Tribal Member Has New Book Published

Michaela Mahsetky Gutierrez has written chil-dren’s book called “Jummy The Turtle” that has just been published. The story is about a lit-tle turtle who learns the value of it’s better to give than to re-ceive. Gutierrez said that the inspiration came when she was traveling back to Lawton,Okla. from an outing, and she wrote this book. She said the name came from her son who’s name is Jeremy. Gutierrez said she has written 15 more books and is currently writing a short story novel. “I believe that I was al-ways interested in writing even as a child because I did car-toons,” said Gutierrez. Gutierrez is the daugh-ter of Madeline Poahway Spic-er and Mack Mahsetky. The book can be pur-chased at Hastings and The Salt Cellar in Lawton, Okla. for $8.99, in the Local Author Section.

Tina and Evelyn Passah and Mari Lanell Simental

Children Represent the Comanche Nation

Sisters Tina and Evelyn Passah, along with cousin Mari Lanell Simental and Ni-vy Pas-

sah, represented the Comanche Nation at the 4th Annual Ft. Worth ISD, District Indian Stu-dent Pow-wow, on Oct. 29. The program was made up of many different tribes throughout the United States. Tina and Evelyn are the daughters of Tiara Passah and Rosario Mena of Ft. Worth. They are the granddaughters of Amy Passah of Lawton, and Freddie Billist of Ft. Worth. Simental is the daugh-ter of Micheal and Sarah Pas-sah Simental of Ft. Worth. Ni-vy Passah is the daughter of Charles Passah Jr. of Apache. They are all the grand-children of Charles Passah Sr. of Oklahoma City, and Mary Mihesuah Pennah of Ft. Worth. A special “Thank You” goes out to Comanche Nation Chairman Johnny Wauqua, and his wife Virginia, for all their support and flag. They made the children feel so special.

“Comanche Boy” To Receive Award At WBC Convention In Las Vegas WBC Continen-tal Americas Middleweight Champion, “Comanche Boy” George Tahdooahnippah (28-0-1) was one the WBC cham-pions attending the 2011 World Boxing Council Convention held at Mandalay Bay Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas on Dec. 11-17. “Comanche Boy” re-ceived a Goodwill Ambassador Award from the WBC for his work and involvement helping other fight diabetes. Tahdooahnippah said, “It is an honor for my tribe and my family to receive such recognition from the WBC and to be recognized for my work outside the ring. I am not only fighting for the pride of my people, but also fighting to improve the lives of all Na-tive Americans and all walks of life, who desire to better their health and their lives.” Tahdooahnippah is the Health and Fitness Promoter for the Comanche Nation Dia-betes Program. He is currently training at Madman Boxing Gym in Elgin, Okla., and is looking to return to the ring in February 2012.

Herrera Receives Indian Education Parent of the

Year Award

Asepermy Receives Governor’s

Commendation Native American Ma-rine Corps Princess, Malia Pewo presented tribal mem-ber, Lanny Asepermy, with a Governor’s Commendation, on Nov. 16. The commendation reads “In recognition of your inspirational spirit toward young Native American men and women encouraging them to serve their country. As an ambassador for the state of Oklahoma, with a heart of gold and underfying love for his Native American Military Servicemen and women. As the Historian of the Coman-che Indian Veterans Associa-tion (CIVA), you have given many volunteer hours paying respect to fellow veterans of all branches of service. You are much appreciated.” Signed by Mary Fallin, Governor of Oklahoma, dated November 10, 2011.

Pewo and Asepermy

Chappabitty Fights in Federal CourtCouncil for Indian Education, during the 2011 Annual OCIE Conference, held in Oklahoma City. Oklahoma Council for Indian Education, mission is to advocate for Native Ameri-can students, share educational strategies, and address the cul-ture and academic needs of the Native American students. Herrera is a descendent from the Comanche, Wichita and Cherokee tribes. She is married to Cresenciano Her-rera. They have three children; Janessa-5th grade, Joli-7th grade, and Josh a freshman at Oklahoma City Community College. Herrera dedicates her time to her family. She is al-ways eager and willing to help with activities within the Okla-homa City Public Schools-Native American Student Ser-vices programs. She currently serves as the secretary for the Indian Education Parent Ad-visory Council and served on the selection committee the first OKCPS JOM Princess in 2010. She also volunteered to bead the OKCPS JOM prin-cess crown. Herrera encourages students to become more cul-turally involved through pow-wow dancing. Her youngest children are members of the OKCPS Native American Stu-dent Dance Troupe and she makes their regalia. She has also assisted students by help-ing make their regalia.

on a standard “Patient Complaint Form” that is routinely available from the Lawton Service Unit.” After repeated written demands and Freedom of Information Re-quest, Chappabitty has never seen the patients’ allegations against him. He filed a grievance on June 27, 2008 that was left unad-dressed over the issuance of the letter of reprimand that remains in his file and unjustly blemishes a solid record of personal and pro-fessional dedication to executing the Mission of the Indian Health Service. In his complaint he al-leged: “CAPT Chappabitty be-lieves that he was “blacklisted” by Indian Health Service manage-ment because he worked diligent-ly to accomplish the DHHS Mis-sion of improving the health care of Indians all without becoming a member of the “good ole boys network” who he believes have achieved their rank by unscrupu-lous means and manipulation of Agency and Commission Corp regulations.” His attorney, Dennis G. Chappabitty, Elk Grove, Cali, states that in his many years of law practice and handling of cases against the Indian Health Service he has never seen such an egregious departure from fol-lowing federal law and regula-tions that would have given his client a fair opportunity to rebut the false charges and retire with an unblemished record: “My cli-ent was forced to endure a totally unjustified surprise attack on him on April 14, 2008 by federal of-ficials holding themselves out as law enforcement officials who engaged in totally uncalled for and illegal coercive interrogation tactics without ever giving him a copy of a patient complaint form signed by his patients all while under threat of losing his job if he left the room or spoke to anyone about the so-called interrogation.” His attorney stated: “We have declared war on the Indian Health Service on December 7, 2011.” Chappabitty filed his ini-tial FTCA claim, within federally mandated time limits, in April 2010 after repeated attempts to obtain the written patient com-plaints, he filed his federal civil action after the Indian Health Ser-vice ignored his efforts to resolve the injustice through administra-tive means. In a final effort to resolve the claim before filing it in the U.S. District Court, Dr. Chappa-bitty’s attorney sent a Final Settle-ment Demand to Dr. Yvette Rou-bideaux, Director, Indian Health Service, on September 27, 2011: “His mistreatment at the end of his medical career is a sad indict-ment on the Agency’s numerous structural deficiencies and exis-tence of a “good ole boy” network that bodes ill for those Ameri-can Indians who desire to enter the IHS and proudly serve their own People. The exposure IHS will receive from this case being filed will, no doubt, cause Indian health professionals to not want to enter the IHS. Tribal leaders and mainstream Americans will be appalled.” The IHS did not re-spond. Attorney for Dr. Chap-pabitty noted that he expects the defendant United States to rigor-ously defend against his client’s complaint and hopes such an ap-proach will bring much needed light on problems within IHS management that have destroyed the careers of many competent American Indian professionals who dedicated their lives toward helping to fulfill the IHS Mission. The FTCA lawsuit is available upon request at [email protected].

Submitted by Dennis Chappabitty


MilestonesHappy Belated

Birthday Edna Daukei, December 6Jennifer Brewer, December 6Decora Monoessy, December 10Robert Allan Karty, December 11Becky Louise Shea, December 14Savannah Jade Poahway, December 14Bradley Louis Daukei, December 18Rickie Mithlo, December 30

Happy BirthdayEdward Saupitty, January 4Henry Pohocsucut, January 4Tsap Sovo, January 5Betty Hargis, January 6Billy Daukei, January 6Vivian Saupitty-Gooday, January 6Tammie Asepermy, January 8Rivers Rhi Johnson, January 9Curtis Kaulaity, January 10Delores Ticeahkie Caudill, January 10Amber Martinez, January 11Jared Thomas Niedo, January 12Karen Monetatchi, January 13Laura Poafpybitty, January 13John Spurlock, January 14Wilson Paul Charity, January 14Shelby Mata, January 15Grace Anna-Elizabeth Niedo, January 16Mark Allen Thoman Jr., January 17April Poafpybitty, January 18Anna Roubideaux, January 19Diane Smith, January 19John Glen Butteris, January 19Lans Saupitty, January 20Christina Theresa Horrigan, January 21Eric Quin Torivio, January 22Jackie Asepermy, January 22Kendric Parker, January 22Darius Asepermy, January 24LeeAnn Parker Smith, January 24Kevin Wahkinney, January 25Mary Austin, January 25Michael Anthony, January 25Jana Sue Evans, January 26Michael Anthony Garcia, January 26Jeriah Michael Nelson, January 28Anthony Hutchens, January 29Donna Jean Kaulaity, January 30Regina Solomon, January 30Wayland Wahnee, January 31Paula Karty, January 31

AnniversaryMelvin Kerchee Jr. & Debbie “Biscuit” Sequichie-Kerchee

December 31-Married 21 years

Don’t Forget to submit milestones for those special loved ones; Just married, Birth Announcements, Birthdays, Anniversaries, etc.

Deadline for February1/15/2012

CallPublicInformationOffice(580)492-3752E-mail: [email protected]

Or mail: Comanche Nation/PIO

P.O. Box 908Lawton, OK 73502

Happy BirthdayWayland Wahnee

January 31

Happy BirthdayJared Thomas Niedo

January 12

Happy BirthdayRivers Rhi Johnson

January 9

Happy BirthdayJeriah Michael

NelsonJanuary 28

Happy BirthdayAnna Roubideaux

January 19

Happy BirthdayKaren Monetatchi

January 13

Happy AnniversaryMelvin Jr. & Debbie

KercheeDecember 31

Married21 years

Happy BirthdayGrace Anna Elizabeth Niedo

January 16

Happy BirthdayTsap Sovo January 5

Happy Belated BirthdayDecora Monoessy

December 10

Angel Luis Perez-Negron Jr.

Born September 15, 1971

Passed Away December 9, 2011

Passing

Donald TwohatchettBorn

May 3, 1950Passed Away

December 13, 2011

Happy BirthdayKevin Wahkinney

January 25

Happy BirthdayShelby Mata January 15

A S S O C I A T I O N O F C O M A N C H E E M P L O Y E E S C O M A N C H E N A T I O N C O M P L E X

* P . O . B O X 9 0 8 , L A W T O N , O K 7 3 5 0 2 *

December 20, 2011 Press Release: On behalf of the Association of Comanche Employees (A.C.E), we would like to thank all the following businesses for their generosity to make the Employee Christmas Party a success. We appreciate the selfless contributions that these businesses have provided to celebrate the holiday season. We cannot express the appropriate gratitude for their generous gifts and willingness to assist. Without the donations of the following businesses and numerous fundraisers, this event would not have been possible. Thank you!

Donations: City National Bank Starlight ADP Finley & Cook Certified Public Accountants

Mr. Jake Sharp Hobbs, Straus, Dean, & Walker

Los Tres Amigos Cinnabon All About You Kens Pharmacy Crocketts Smokehouse Tiptons Fine Jewelry Native Styles Golden Corral Furrs Branding Iron Thunderbird Lanes Outback Steakhouse Meers Store & Restaurant Flowers Etc Edible Arrangements O.P. Nails Santa Fe Steakhouse Lone Star Steakhouse The Breeze 99.5 Texas Roadhouse Lawton Floral West Magic 95.3 Ramons Flowers Peachwave All American Cookie Fashion Nail Spa Renu-Spa Buffalo Wild Wings El Chico Aladdins Charleys Subs Regis Salon Rhinestone Razor Trinity Global Stripes Teeze Total Salon Warriors Café Julios Mexican Restaurant Discount Foods Sav-a-lot Eve’s Beauty College Biancos Italian Restaurant The Association of Comanche Employees (ACE):

Janet Saupitty – President Donna Wahnee – Vice-President Jolene Schonchin – Secretary BJ Anderson – Treasurer Shandel Wesaw – Public Information The Association of Comanche Employees (ACE) is made up of all the individuals’ employed within the Comanche Nation Government whose departments provide services to the Nation’s membership. The mission of ACE is to unify the Comanche Nation employees and create a positive motivation that will impact employee morale and the quality of their work environment.

“COMANCHE BOY” GOES TO CANADA. Professional Boxer and current WBC (World Boxing Council) Continental Americas Middleweight Champion, George “Comanche Boy” Tahdooahnip-pah recently was the honored guest speaker at the 2011 Cree Nation AnnualYouthCouncilMeeting.“ItwasmyfirsttriptoCanadaandI was honored to be selected as the guest speaker,” Tahdooahnippah said. Tahdooahnippah is currently sidelined with a injury sustained inhislastfightfortheWBCtitlebeltinJuly.Tahdooahnippahsaid,“Canada was extraordinarily beautiful and the Cree Community of Mistissini was a place like no other. The Cree Community welcomed me and made me feel at home. I was amazed how traditional the Creepeopleareandhowtheirlanguageisspokenfirst.IamgladIhad fellow tribal members, Cree Youth Chief Shawn Iserhoff, and Cree Deputy Grand Chief, Ashley Iserhoff, show me their commu-nityandfirstclasshospitality. AlotoftheCreehaveneverheardof the Comanche people, so I was honored to represent my tribe.” “Comanche Boy” will be returning to the ring in Feb. 2012 at a venue yet to be determined.

Courtesy Photo

Happy BirthdayThomas Narcomey

Jan. 11


Obituaries

Kathy Joyce Tasso

Funeral for Kathy Joyce Tasso, 34, Geronimo, was Nov. 28, at the Comanche Nation Funeral Home Chapel in Lawton, Okla. with Pastor Steve Mallow, Emmanuel Bap-tist Church, officiating. Tasso went to be with the Lord on Nov. 24 from a Lawton hospital. Prayer service was Nov. 27 at the Comanche Na-tion Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Jerry Simmons and Pastor Tommy Johnson offici-ating. Burial was at High-land Cemetery under direction of Comanche Nation Funeral Home. Tasso was born on Sept. 3, 1977 in Lawton, the beloved daughter of Saadia Tasso and James M. Johnson, Jr. and step-mother, Redbird Johnson. She attended schools at Geronimo and also Cache Public Schools. She also attended Great Plains Vo-tech, studying Auto Me-chanics. She is the special beloved daughter of Betty Simmons and Don Atkinson and a special sister to Quinn Simmons and Chad Simmons. She was baptized at Bible Bap-tist Church in Lawton. Tasso loved being with family and all her friends, especially Re-gin Watts and Victoria Toahty.

Richard James Wahkinney

Funeral for Richard James Wahkinney, 61, long-time Norman resident was Dec. 11, at the Comanche Na-tion Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Nancy Dacci, Abundant

Armand Burgess

Funeral for Armand Burgess, 58, of Snyder was Dec. 15 at Comanche Nation Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Nick Tahchawwickah, Rev. James Ikner officiating. Prayer service was Dec. 14 at Comanche Nation Funeral Home Chapel. Burial followed at Post Oak Cemetery under direction of Comanche Nation Funeral Home with Military Honors. Burgess died on Dec. 11 at Ayers Nursing Home in Snyder, Okla. He was born on Sept. 26, 1953 in Lawton to Curtis Burgess, Sr. and Mary Ellen Tahchawwickah Morris. He was raised in the Indiahoma and Cache are and graduated

Tasso was a member of the Co-manche Nation of Oklahoma. She is survived by chil-dren: Antonio Tasso, Keenan Roubideaux and Melody Rou-bideaux. Her parents and spe-cial parents: Step dad, Rick Kelly; sisters: Angel and Rik-ki Thompson of Cache, Sonia Whitewolf of Apache; special brothers: Chad Simmons of Geronimo and Quinn Simmons of Lawton; stepbrother: Don-nie Zimmerman of Apache; special nieces and nephews: Chantel Simmons, Shelly Sim-mons and Andy Simmons; adopted brother: Speedy D and Lisa Pohawpatchoko; her grandparents: James and Ger-aldine Johnson, Sr. of Okema and Waylon Samis of Cache; uncles: Bob Tenequer, Na-thanial Woommavoyah, Wel-don Simmons, Robert Tasso, Waynie Tahpay and Randy Johnson; aunts: Barbara Pat-terson, Pauline Koweno, Boni-ta Paddyaker, Marie Eckiwau-dah, Debbie Teeters, Wayla Wauqua, Lena “Jeanie” John-son, Kendrith Johnson and Johnna Tahpay. Tasso was preceded in death by her grandparents: Ruth and Elton Simmons; grandmother: Beatrice Samis and Lisa Youngman Tahpay and one uncle: Eddie Johnson.

Life Church of Lawton, Offici-ating. Wahkinney was called home on Dec. 8, from a Nor-man Hospital. Prayer service was Dec. 9, at the funeral home chapel. Burial was at Elgin Memorial Cemetery under di-rection of Comanche Nation Funeral Home. Wahkinney entered this life on Jun. 9, 1950 in Lawton, the son of Collins and Winifred Lodes Wahkin-ney. He grew up in Lawton, Bartlesville and Norman and graduated from Norman High School. On Sept. 9, 1988, he married the love of his life, the former Eunice McCollum in Norman and they made their home in Norman. Wahkinney attended Oklahoma University and Moore-Norman Vo-tech. He received many certificates nation wide in computer train-ing and radar technology as he worked for the National Severe Storms Lab. He was the great-great grandson of Chief Qua-nah Parker and was a member of the Comanche Nation of Oklahoma and the Comanche Little Ponies. He enjoyed fish-ing, artwork, building things, his motorcycles, learning his Comanche Culture and heri-tage and most of all, enjoyed watching his grandchildren at play, attending pow-wows and gourd dancing. He leaves to cherish his memories his wife of 23 years: Eunice Wahkinney; his mother: Winifred Wahkinney of Norman; two granddaugh-ters: Ariel and Aliyah, both of Norman; three sisters and brothers-in-law: Patricia and Bruce Valley and Colline and Steve Keely, all of Norman and Elizabeth and Alonso Portillo of Oklahoma City; one brother and sister-in-law: Michael and Becky Wahkinney, all of Nor-man; as well as many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, broth-er and sisters-in-law, sisters and brothers-in-laws, cousins

and friends. Wahkinney was pre-ceded in death by his daugh-ter: Ceclia Kelly; his father: Collins Wahkinney; maternal grandparents: Richard and Irene Lodes; paternal grand-parents: James and Ollie Park-er Wahkinney; paternal great grandparents: Baldwin and Nora Parker and Wahkinney and Nah’kee; two aunts: Glad-ys Wahkinney and Lenora Jean Wahkinney; one uncle: Rus-sell Wahkinney. A memorial service is planned at a later date and time at the St. Michaels Episcopal Church in Norman.

from Indiahoma High School. After he graduated from high school he attended Okmulgee State Tech receiving a degree in Auto Body Repair. He was a Native American artist that loved to paint, loved to play softball with the Indian leagues in Oklahoma City and all over Oklahoma, was a very good cook, enjoyed doing handi-work and maintenance for fam-ily and friends. He enlisted in the US Navy on Oct. 10, 1974 and served until Oct. 17, 1977 where he was Honorably Dis-charged. He was a member of the Comanche Nation of Okla-homa and descendent of the Otoe-Missouri Tribe. He is survived by one daughter: Roxanne Burgess of Stillwell, Okla.; one son: Timothy Burgess of Stillwell, Okla.; three grandchildren; five sisters; Donzetta Ikner of Indi-ahoma; Marcelia Johanson and Karen Mattia of Claremore; Amelia Sipe of Shattuck; Jan-ice Cartwright of Tulsa; two brothers: Curtis Burgess, Jr. of Cache and Fagan Morris of Musckogee; four aunts: Mar-querite Parker, Rose Nauni, and Helen Cable all of Cache; Velma Kemble of Ponca City; two uncles: Pete Coffey, Jr. of Ponca City and Nick Tahchaw-wickah of Cache; many nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, two sis-ters: Roberta Rosemark and Gayla Coulston; uncle: Allen Tahchawwickah; two aunts: Vida Woommavoyah and Sar-ah Tahchawwickah.

Dear TCNN, Recently, I was nomi-nated by Comanche Nation En-terprise, Inc. (CONEI), to serve as an outside board member; the nomination subsequently approved by the Comanche Nation Business Committee. The Comanche Na-tion’s decision to create a federally-chartered, for-profit business enterprise, with a pri-marily goal of pursuing federal contracting opportunities, is a wise and prudent business deci-sion. This decision has the po-tential of generating on-going revenue streams for the Nation for many years. This decision was based on the knowledge that many tribes in the lower 48 states, and almost all Alaskan Native Corporations (ANC), have long since made similar visionary business decisions. Accordingly, the Comanche Nation and the established CO-NEI entity, inherently, meet all the federal criteria to create thewholly-owned tribal enter-prise named Comanche Nation Construction, Inc. (CNC). Ac-

cordingly, CNC secured U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) 8(a) Business Devel-opment designation and im-mediately jumped in the fed-eral construction market. To date, this effort has met with amazing results, meeting and exceeding all milestones of expectation. By reason of this initial success, CONEI is con-tinuing to research other areas of the federal business market for opportunities to create and/or acquire business enterprises to likewise compete in the mar-ket as wholly-owned subsidiar-ies of CONEI with SBA 8(a) designation. Individually and collec-tively, the CONEI Board pos-sesses a vision of success, not simply for the enterprise, but for the entire Comanche Na-tion. As prudently researched and well-written history books indicate, the Comanche peo-ple played a major role in the acquisition and development history of the southwest and western portions of the United States. This history not simplyconfined to military encoun-

ters, but more impor-tantly, to the role the Co-manche people played, collectively, in keeping European expansion at bay in these regions, now known as the continental United States. With the development of this and future, on-going, for-profit business ventures, the Comanche Nation is poised to once again play a major role in the continued progress and economic development of the United States. I am pleased to serve as a Board member entrusted with contribut-ing, in a small measure, to the continued devel-opment of CONEI and the Comanche Nation.

Phil Howry, Owner – PHIL HOWRY CO.

Dear TCNNLetters to the Editor


Elders Day Honors Tribal Senior Citizens Tribal elders age 62 years of age and older were the highlight on Dec. 16, as the Comanche Nation held its annual Elders Day at Watch-etaker Hall at the Comanche Nation Complex. An estimated 2,000 elders and family mem-bers filled the hall to partake in a holiday meal and hear festive Christmas songs from church-

es, singers, and daycare chil-dren. It was a time for the el-ders to visit friends and family, and to take pictures with loved ones. Laughter and blissful-ness were shared by the crowd. Little Washita Church, Elgin middle school, Coman-che Nation Princess Krista Hubbard, Victoria Tahchaw-

wickah, and the children of the Comanche Nation Daycares in Lawton and Apache sung songs throughout the event. Vendors of all sorts filled the conference room of

the Education building. Many took advantage of purchasing unique hand crafted gifts from local merchant booths. Tribal employees were busy serving the elders and

making sure they were being taken care of. They delivered coffee and other beverages to tables, and carried lunch plates to the honored guests.

By Jolene Schonchin/News StaffPhotos by Jolene Schonchin, Paula Karty, Tomah Yeahquo/News Staff

Harold “Bullhead” Pewewardy and Ed Eschiti

Mr. and Mrs. Gooday

Madeline Soontay

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Olamae Tsatoke

Rita Wahnee

Richard Bread

Wayne Pahcoddy

Sandra Karty and Alene Gembacz

Nearly 2,000 people attended the Elder’s Day celebration Dec. 16 at Watchetaker Hall. Friends and family gathered to help honor the senior citizens of the tribe.

Mary Maddox

402 S.E. F Ave. • P.O. Box 1671 • Lawton, OK 73502 • 580.357.4956 www.comanchehousing.com

“SERVICE WITH PRIDE”

PROGRAMS CURRENTLY OFFERED

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Photos by Jolene Schonchin/News Staff

FESTIVE FEAST AT COMANCHE DAY-CARE. The Numunu Turuetuu Early Child-hood Development Center invited parents and grandparents to a festive Christmas lunch Dec. 13 at their facility in Lawton. Both parents and children enjoyed the time together, and took the opportunity to thank the staff for a success-ful year. Door prizes were given out, and some parentsweregivenaspecialcertificateforsup-porting the Comanche Nation Daycare during fundraisers and other activities. Pictured on the bottom left are Jodi Mata and Raylen Mata. Bottom right, Totsiyaa Todd is all smiles as she enjoys her Christmas cake.

january 2012

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