TULSA, OKLA. (KTUL) — The Cherokee Nation has announced plans to introduce new specialty license plates recognizing specific branches of the U.S. military for Cherokee veterans and active-duty service members.
Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr. revealed the new designs during the Cherokee Veterans Christmas Gathering.
Eligible Cherokee citizens will be able to request the new plates when their current vehicle registration expires in 2026.
Unlike existing military tags offered by the tribe, the new plates will honor individual military branches.
Chief Hoskin said the initiative is another way to recognize the service and sacrifices of Cherokee citizens who have served in the armed forces.
He credited the Cherokee Nation Tax Commission and its leadership for advancing the effort.
Cherokee Nation officials said the tribe currently issues thousands of military license plates, including several hundred to active-duty citizens and more than 10,000 to veterans.
The new branch-specific plates will be optional and available for both new and used vehicles.
Deputy Chief Bryan Warner said the plates will give Cherokee service members a visible way to share their military history and honor their service.
The specialty plates will be available at no additional cost to active-duty Cherokee citizens, veterans, and surviving spouses of Cherokee veterans.
Active-duty service members will be required to provide a military status form, while veterans must submit discharge documentation.
Cherokee Nation Secretary of Veterans Affairs S. Joe Crittenden said the plates reflect the tribe’s continued commitment to supporting veterans and recognizing their contributions.
Once available, the plates can be obtained through Cherokee Nation Tag Offices located throughout the reservation, including offices in Tahlequah, Adair, Catoosa, Collinsville, Jay, Sallisaw and Stilwell. At-large Cherokee citizens living in Oklahoma will also be eligible.
Additional information about the new military branch plates is available through Cherokee Nation Tag Offices.
