Secretary-Treasurer Benny Tahmahkera Advocates for Native Veterans at Roundtable

On March 30, 2026, Tom Cole hosted a roundtable session with Doug Collins at the Chickasha Community Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, bringing together tribal leaders from across the state to advocate for Native veterans.

We are proud to share that Comanche Nation Secretary-Treasurer Benny Tahmahkera represented the Comanche Nation at this important discussion, alongside Dr. Tom Boyt of the Comanche Indian Veteran Association.

During the session, tribal representatives were asked to present their top concerns directly to Secretary Collins. The Comanche Nation’s priorities focused on strengthening support for our veterans through improved access and resources, including the development of a Comanche Tribal Veteran liaison, expanding the benefits of the Veteran Directed Care Program, increasing support for homeless veterans, and addressing delays in the placement of headstone markers for our fallen heroes.

Additional discussions included key issues impacting tribal communities, such as reimbursement timelines for tribal clinics, mental health services, culturally relevant approaches to homelessness, and access to vital VA programs and grants.

This roundtable was a meaningful step forward, creating space for tribal voices to be heard at the national level. We extend our appreciation to Representative Cole for hosting and to Secretary Collins for engaging in these critical conversations.

The Comanche Nation remains committed to advocating for our veterans and ensuring they receive the respect, care, and recognition they deserve.