Smith to Host Second Veterans Campout

OKLAHOMA CITY – Rep. David Smith, R-Arpelar, is holding a Veterans Campout June 1-2 at the Scipio Campground, 4701 N Four Corners Road, McAlester.

The event is free of charge. It is endorsed by the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs (ODVA).

Smith, an Army veteran,  said any veteran in the state and their family members or supporters are invited to attend the campout, the second he’s held. The event he hosted in 2022 drew several hundred veterans and their families from across the state.

“Our community loves our veterans, and this is just a way for us to recognize their service and dedication,” Smith said. “I want to give them a place they can come and relax, have some fun, enjoy some free food and get to hear from other veterans as a way to thank them and encourage them in their daily lives.”

Keynote speakers are Brig. Gen. Christopher A. Eason with the Oklahoma Air National Guard, and Col. Chris Kannady, who serves as the deputy state staff judge advocate for the Oklahoma Air National Guard as well as a state representative.

The 45th Infantry Division also is planning to be a part of the weekend as is Erica Traxler, Commander of the VFW Department of Oklahoma, and the nonprofit Flagpoles Honoring our Veterans.

Lunch and dinner Saturday, and breakfast Sunday will be provided. Entertainment is planned for Saturday night as well as activities and prizes throughout the campout. There are some RV spots available, but they are first-come, first-served. Tent camping is encouraged. A sunrise church service will be preached Sunday morning by Pastor Bart Patterson.

RSVPs are appreciated by calling David Smith (405) 557-7376 or emailing [email protected].

Sponsors include Sam Wampler of Freedom Ford in McAlester, real estate agent Kevin Beaty of Keller Williams SEOK, and Pruett Food Stores. Tulsa Trail Riders is donating the campgrounds for the event.

David Smith serves District 18 in the Oklahoma House of Representatives.  His district includes Hughes and Okfuskee counties and parts of Coal and  Pittsburg counties.