I took part in a ceremony this week, awarding the Oklahoma Cross of Valor to Richard D. Lawrence, of Wakita, at the State Capitol.
Lawrence was a flight maintenance gunner and ball turret gunner who flew aboard a B-17 Flying Fortress during World War II as part of the 2518th Army Air Force Base Unit in the European Theater, Hungary. He was shot down during a mission over Hungary and captured by enemy forces, spending almost a year as a prisoner of war from June 27, 1944, through May 2, 1945.
We were told that throughout his captivity, Lawrence endured harsh and inhumane conditions, including a grueling march of more than 500 miles without provisions. Yet, even in the face of such extreme adversity, Lawrence was noted for consistently providing leadership and support to his fellow POWs, never losing hope for their eventual liberation.
After returning home, he became a vital part of his community, serving on several boards, in several churches as an elder, and as a director of his hometown bank. He still manages his wheat and cattle farm, clearing fields from the seat of his Polaris.
It was such an honor to meet this dedicated and courageous veteran and to recognize him in this manner. I’m grateful for his sacrifice to keep his fellow citizens safe and free.
May is Military Appreciation Month, which made this recognition all the more important to me. As a veteran, I know our country remains free and safe from enemy attacks because of the strength of our military. I’m ever appreciative of those who are serving or who have served in this capacity.
This week in the House of Representatives, we heard numerous bills in advance of the third-reading deadline for bills from the opposite chamber.
I passed Senate Bill 250, which ensures Oklahoma’s minimum wage law remains consistent with federal standards, while also preserving protections for workers to receive fair compensation through regulated tips and other benefits. This bill supports free market principles by recognizing the full value of compensation packages while respecting the decisions of small business owners when contracting with their employees.
I amended this bill, so it now returns to the Senate for final consideration.
Bills unamended in the opposite chamber go straight to the governor for his consideration of signing them into law. He’s already signed a number of bills.
Also, this week, we had the pleasure of welcoming the FFA Choir to the House. Students from across the state participate in this choir, and they show a phenomenal amount of talent. Their rendition of “God Bless America” was truly touching, and of course the song “Oklahoma!” drew an enthusiastic response.
As always, please do not hesitate to reach out to me at (405) 557-7350 or collin.duel@okhouse.gov if I can ever be of service to you.
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