"the People's Paths!" Cherokee News Path - Cherokees Honor Military Employees

"Four Cherokee Nation employees who will soon be deployed to Iraq for the U.S. armed forces were honored with a reception at the Cherokee Nation complex. Pictured l-r are: Brian Bayhylle, Keith Danner, Frank Roof and Scott Ennis."

TAHLEQUAH, OKLAHOMA - In recognition to their service to the Cherokee Nation and the United States, the Cherokee Nation recently held a reception for four employees who will be deployed to Iraq in the coming weeks.

The reception honored Keith Danner of Information Services, Brian Bayhylle, a paramedic with Cherokee Nation EMS, Frank Roof, a Cherokee Nation Firedancer, and Scott Ennis, a villager and guide at the Cherokee Heritage Center.

“I commend each of these men, as well as all other service men and women for the sacrifices that they make to keep our country safe,” said Chad Smith, Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation. “The Cherokee Nation has a rich history of military service, I am proud to see that continues today.”

Over the past year, Keith Danner has attended military training schools and appreciates the support that he has received from the Cherokee Nation.

“I sincerely appreciate the continued support that the Cherokee Nation has given to me and my family,” said Danner. “As an employee, I have been allowed to take part in military schools that will enhance my military career, and that is something that I really am grateful for.”

“We are proud of our Cherokee heritage, the Cherokee Nation and our country,” said Ennis. “We have a saying at the Cherokee Nation and its ga du gi. Well, ga du gi starts right here, we take care of one another.”

During the reception Chief Smith reminded employees that these brave men are representatives of the Cherokee Nation that willingly give their all for the sake of others.

“These veterans have given more to us than we can give back,” said Smith. “I encourage each of you to embrace these men and keep them in your hearts and prayers until they return.”