WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.) and Tom Coburn (R-Okla.), and U.S. Representative John Sullivan (R-Okla.), announced that legislation (H.R.366) designating the Department of Veterans Affairs Outpatient clinic in Tulsa the “Ernest Childers Department of Veterans Affairs Outpatient Clinic” passed the Senate last night by Unanimous Consent.  The legislation passed the U.S. House of Representatives in June and is on its way to the President to be signed.

 

“Ernest Childers was the first Native American to be awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor,” Senator Inhofe said.  “Fighting in Italy during World War II, Ernest Childers attacked and destroyed two enemy machine gun nests with a broken ankle and without any grenades, bravely risking his life above and beyond the call of duty.  Later in life, Ernest Childers said, ‘Take pride in what you do and be the best in what you do.’  Lieutenant Colonel Ernest Childers epitomizes the spirit of Oklahoma and I am glad he has received this well-deserved recognition.”

 

“The courageous veterans of our armed services deserve the respect and gratitude of each American.  Our service members exemplify the principles of our nation and none mores so than Colonel Childers.  Earnest Childers epitomizes the selflessness of our uniformed men and women, and I am proud the memory of this humble man will be forever remembered as a great Oklahoman with the naming of this clinic,” said Dr. Coburn.

 

Congressman Sullivan said, “Of his military service in World War II, Lt. Col. Childers once said, ‘The American Indian has only one country to defend, and when you're picked on, the American Indian never turns his back.’ A fitting quote from a man who exemplified courage under fire and dedication to defending our nation. Oklahomans were honored to have him grace us with his model character, defend us with his bravery, and leave us all with an example of a life well-lived.”

Over 12,000 Native Americans fought in World War I and over 44,000 Native Americans fought in World War II.  Thousands more served in Korea and Vietnam, and continue to serve today.  Ernest Childers, a Creek Indian, was the first American Indian to receive the Medal of Honor for his actions in World War II.

For more information on Ernest Childers’ Medal of Honor, click here.