NCAI president inducted into Military Museum's Hall of Honor

Tuesday, June 14, 2011  

National Congress of American Indians President Jefferson Keel was inducted into the Military Memorial Museum Hall of Fame in Oklahoma on Monday.

Keel, the Lt. Gov. of the Chickasaw Nation, began his military service in the Oklahoma National Guard at the age of 16. He enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1966 and served two extended tours of duty in the Vietnam War.

For his service in Vietnam, Keel earned two Purple Hearts, the Bronze Star with "V" for valor, and the Army Commendation Medal with valor.

"The professional and outstanding accomplishments of Captain Jefferson E. Keel reflect great credit upon himself, the United States Army, the Chickasaw Nation, the State of Oklahoma and the Nation," the museum stated.

Keel later returned to active duty and retired from the Army as a Captain in 1989 after 22 years of service.