Gary Lindley honored as Veteran of the Month

Gary Dude Lindley, District #12, is Choctaw Nation’s Veteran of the Month.

Lindley was born in McAlester, Okla., and grew up and graduated high school in Savannah, Okla. He joined the National Guard in 1967 and served in the U.S. Army for two years, including a 12-month tour in Vietnam, where he developed lasting friendships. His family has a rich history of military service, with several uncles who served in WWII and many cousins who served in Vietnam. His patriotic connections encouraged his enlistment.

He was sent to Fort Ord, Calif., for basic training and immediately to Vietnam. He returned to Fort Ord for the remainder of his service time. He enjoyed touring the area and appreciated the beautiful countryside, amazing architecture, and rich history of the monasteries surrounding Fort Ord.

Upon his return to Okla., Lindley was employed by the McAlester Ammunition Depot and later became head of security at Arrowhead after it was purchased by the Choctaw Nation.

He moved to the McIntosh County Sheriff’s Department and rose to the rank of Undersheriff. He met his wife, Carol, who was the County Treasurer. They have been married for 27 years.

Lindley served a term as the McIntosh County Commissioner, where he enjoyed working with his crew and the family atmosphere he helped to create. He served five years as Commander of Disabled American Veterans, Chapter Three, in McIntosh County before his retirement.

He holds his Choctaw heritage in high regard, influenced by his full-blood Choctaw grandfather and half-Choctaw, half-Irish mother, who instilled great pride in his heritage. He expresses gratitude for the leadership of Chief Gary Batton and Assistant Chief Jack Austin Jr.

The Choctaw Nation holds our veterans in the highest esteem and appreciates their sacrifices and contributions to preserve our freedoms and the way of life we hold dear.