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TAHLEQUAH, OK - Cherokee Nation Office of Veterans Affairs will build a memorial to honor all Cherokee Veterans. The structure, known as the Cherokee Warriors Memorial, will honor Cherokee veterans, both living and deceased, who have served or are serving in the United States military. The Warriors Memorial will be located directly east of the Cherokee Nation Complex.

The Memorial will consist of a fifty foot Cherokee Nation Seal, made of granite, surrounded by a brick walkway. Engraved on the bricks will be names of veterans. A granite monument, inscribed in both Cherokee and English, will stand near the top of the Seal. The inscription will read, "A grateful Cherokee Nation dedicates this Memorial to all Cherokee men and women, both living and dead, who have defended their families, their people and their homeland. All gave some. Some gave all."

Three flag poles bearing the Cherokee, United States and POW MIA flags will fly in front of the granite monument; and seven poles, symbolizing the seven Cherokee clans, will stand before the three flag poles. Cherokee citizens may fly flags on their clan's pole in honor of their veteran.

"We're excited about this project", said Rogan Noble of the Cherokee Nation Office of Veterans Affairs. "The Warriors Memorial is a way we can honor and preserve the proud heritage of all Cherokee veterans, from all branches of the military."

According to Principal Chief Chad Smith, Cherokees have a rich history of US military involvement, beginning with the War of 1812 and continuing until today. "This memorial will be a visual testimony to our Cherokee veterans who proudly defended their homes, families and our Cherokee way of life."

The memorial is being funded through the sale of bricks that will be placed on the surrounding walkway. The price of each brick is $25 and includes engraving up to three lines with thirteen characters per line. For more information or to purchase a brick, please contact Rogan Noble, 918-456-0671 (ext.2694).