Oklahoma Veteran News Magazine Receives Highest Recognition

story by Darl Devault, contributing editor

For the statewide free Oklahoma Veterans News Magazine to receive a Senate Citation of Recognition after just one year in print serves as powerful validation of its role in bridging the gap between state resources and the Veterans it serves.
Such recognition highlights the magazine’s value as a statewide communication
tool that unifies a community of over 300,000 Veterans.
Co-publishers Steve Eldridge and Veteran Steve Sibley worked together on
its creation for more than a year leading up to the publication’s first issue in May
2025.
This official validation of impact from State Senator Brenda Stanley (R-Midwest
City), who chairs the Senate Veterans and Military Affairs Committee, designates the
publication as a trusted source of information for the state’s military community.
This legislative commendation reinforces the magazine’s role as a “vital part of
the state’s identity,” officially acknowledging its mission to pay tribute to the service
and sacrifice of Oklahoma Veterans and their families.
All of this is because the magazine is attempting to help many Veterans who
are unaware of available benefits, such as sales tax exemptions. A recognized
statewide magazine acts as a critical partner in disseminating this essential
information and updates on benefits, services, and new laws, such as the PACT Act
and state-specific tax exemptions.
It also serves as a platform to raise awareness of Veterans-owned businesses
and encourage “patriotic Oklahomans” to support them.
The platform also promotes storytelling and community engagement. It helps
preserve the patriotic legacy by sharing stories of Veterans’ achievements. It
chronicles their sacrifice, fostering a sense of belonging and “collective pride”
across the state.
Its outreach for isolated Veterans continues to expand with over 600 distribution
points-including VFWs, American Legion posts, and VA clinics. This magazine
reaches Veterans who may not have easy access to digital information, partnering
with the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs (ODVA) to feature leadership
and highlight state-run programs and ceremonies.
The content of the document follows:
THE STATE OF OKLAHOMA
Citation of Recognition
EXPRESSING SUPPORT FOR THE OKLAHOMA VETERAN NEWS MAGAZINE;
COMMENDING ITS LEADERSHIP; AND DIRECTING DISTRIBUTION.
WHEREAS, Senator Brenda Stanley, Chair of the Senate Veterans and Military
Affairs Committee, proudly supports the mission of the Oklahoma Veteran News Magazine, the first statewide monthly free publication dedicated to serving Oklahoma’s veterans, active-duty service members, and their families; and
WHEREAS, the magazine marks one year in print, reflecting its continued commitment to
informing, connecting and honoring those who have taken the oath to defend the United States;
and
WHEREAS, Oklahoma is home to major installations, including Altus Air Force Base, Fort Sill, McAlester Army Ammunition Plant, Tinker Air Force Base, and Vance Air Force Base, which play a vital role in national defense and serve as key economic drivers; and
WHEREAS, the Oklahoma Veteran News Magazine strengthens the military community by
sharing important information, connecting veterans to resources, and promoting awareness, respect, and appreciation for their service; and
WHEREAS, the Oklahoma Senate recognizes the importance of ensuring veterans and their
families have access to timely, accurate information and honors the service and sacrifice of those who have defended our freedoms;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE OF THE 60TH OKLAHOMA
LEGISLATURE:
THAT the Oklahoma Senate expresses its support for the Oklahoma Veteran News Magazine
and its mission to serve Oklahoma’s military and veteran community, and THAT co-publishers Steve Eldridge and Veteran Steve Sibley are commended for exemplifying
the spirit of “The Oklahoma Standard” through their dedication to veterans’ affairs and community service; and
THAT a copy of this resolution be distributed to
Steve Eldridge and Steve Sibley.
Signed April 22, 2026: Senator Brenda Stanley
Senate District 42