OKC Thunder players honor veterans with surprise visit, meals

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla.–Ahead of Veterans Day, the Oklahoma City Thunder took time to visit and honor veterans in and around OKC, the NBA team announced Sunday.

Thunder entertainers and staff visited the Norman Veterans Center and the Oklahoma National Guard alongside OKC-based law firm Cannon and Associates to deliver meals in recognition of their service.

“The National Guard is very important to me and my family. I’ve been in the National Guard for well over 10 years. I serve as a judge advocate and attorney for commanders and soldiers,” John Cannon of Cannon and Associates said. “So many of the people that I served with overseas for almost a year are here today, and that fellowship means a lot to me.”

okc thunder veterans — Photo courtesy of OKC Thunder

Kale Rogers, Brigade Commander for the 45th Field Artillery Brigade, said, “it’s just a blessing to have Oklahoma City Thunder and John Cannon and Associates to give back to the community and truly the citizen soldiers of the Oklahoma National Guard. He said it’s important for young soldiers to see the community care about them.

“Just knowing in the past that not all service members were honored like they are now. So, Veterans Day is a time to celebrate,” he added. “It’s an honor to be part of this profession and serve our country.”

OKC Thunder players surprise veterans

Meanwhile, Thunder players Jalen Williams, Adam Flagler and Malevy Leons visited the Oklahoma Veteran Health Care Center to greet clients, pass out military-themed gifts and spread Thunder cheer.

“I just wanted to show my appreciate, go out and meet them and give them a good day. I think it’s good for them to all come together, show some community,” Thunder small forward Malevy Leons said. “I’m just happy to have a fun day with them and have a good time.”

Alana Edwards is Voluntary Service Specialist for the VA Center for Development and Civic Engagement. She said seeing the Thunder players put a smile on veterans’ faces who often lack engagement with the outside world.

“Most of our veterans, they don’t have family or people who come visit them. So, when people do come visit them it puts a thrill in their day to know they were appreciated for what they’ve done for our country,” Edwards said.

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OKC Thunder players surprise veterans

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