Members of the Oklahoma Legislature gathered Tuesday morning in a joint session for Oklahoma National Guard Appreciation Day.

Major General Thomas H. Mancino, the Adjutant General of the Oklahoma National Guard, spoke to the crowd ahead of Gov. Kevin Stitt, who proclaimed April 11, 2023 as Oklahoma National Guard Appreciation Day in recognition for their courage and bravery while serving the state and nation in domestic missions and global conflicts.

Rep. Jay Steagall, R-Yukon, served in the Oklahoma Army National Guard from 1996-2003 and in the Oklahoma Air National Guard from 2003-2016.

"Since the attack on our country on September 11, 2001, the National Guard has provided roughly half of the downrange personnel and equipment requirements across multiple combat zones in an effort to eliminate various threats to our national security," Steagall said. "Today we are proud to honor our Oklahoma Army and Air National Guard members, their spouses and families, as well as recognize their commitment and dedication to answer the call to defend our state and country against all enemies."