OKLAHOMA CITY, OK The Legislature during a joint session on Thursday honored the state’s veterans, as many of them looked on from the gallery of the House chamber.

“Oklahomans have always been among the first to stand up and answer the call to defend democracy and liberty,” said House Speaker Chris Benge, R-Tulsa. “Many generations are represented here today, but I am especially heartened to see the younger faces in the crowd. It shows that the tradition of service is not a thing of the past.”

Benge said the nation is fighting an elusive enemy. If the enemy wins, democratic government would not exist, he said.

“The United States has freed hundreds of millions of people from the chains of communism and totalitarianism over the years and this world is better off because of it,” Benge said. “There is no reason to apologize for America’s strength.” The crowd gave him a standing ovation.

Benge said he never had an opportunity to serve and can only imagine what it is like to put one’s life on the line.

Lt. Gov. Jari Askins said the state leads in the nation in providing care to veterans.

As she hears about problems providing care in other areas of the nation, Oklahoma leaders must continue to ensure veterans receive the highest quality of care, she said.

State leaders have made a commitment to ensure that veteran’s centers must be places to live, not merely places to exist, Askins said.

Senate President Pro Tem Glenn Coffee spoke of the courage displayed by those who fought in Europe, the Pacific, Korea, Vietnam, Kuwait, Afghanistan and Iraq.

“The faith they showed in themselves, their commanders, and our almighty God in the face of the gravest of danger gave them the strength to complete their missions,” said Coffee, R-Oklahoma City.

Benge said those who left and did not come home must be remembered. They paid a debt that we can’t be repay, Benge said.

“To everyone who ever served this great nation, I say thank you,” Benge said. “And to those who died fighting for America, we will never be able to repay to you what you did for us.”

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