Edmond, OK - The Oklahoma Military Hall of Fame will celebrate its 27th Banquet and Induction Ceremony on Nov. 7 at the Embassy Suites, Norman. This year’s class includes First Lieutenant Daniel W. Griswold and 11 other living and deceased service members representing all services and allranks and the OklahomaDustoff / Medevac Crewsof the Vietnam War. Theirachievements are as numerous and inspiring as thosewho have been previouslyinducted
First Lieutenant Daniel W. Griswold was born in Agra, OK, in 1917, and graduated fromTryon High School in 1936. He earned a degree in agriculture from Oklahoma A&M College in 1940 and was commissioned through Army ROTC. Entering active duty in July 1940, he joined the 31st Infantry Regiment in Manila, Philippines. On Jan. 21, 1942, Griswold led Company K in a successful attack that repelled a Japanese assault on the American defensive line at Bataan. After the peninsula fell on April 9, 1942, he endured the Bataan Death March as a prisoner of war and died on July 3, 1942. Griswold was posthumously awarded the Silver Star in 1950.
The formal event drew almost 600 attendees in 2025, according to Colonel (Ret) Kelly Zachgo, President of the Oklahoma Military Heritage Foundation, whose Board operates the Hall of Fame. Families, friends and corporate sponsors attend to celebrate the honorees.
Colonel Zachgo stated the entertainment will feature the 145th Army Band performing patriotic music.
Major General Douglas O. Dollar, USA (retired), who founded the Hall of Fame, explained the purpose behind the ceremony.
“We try to honor veterans for one thing, for valor. They’ve been outstanding in combat. The other criteria is that they may have done community/ public service for veterans, and they certainly deserve recognition and encouragement.”
Inductees are selected through a rigorous process to ensure Oklahoma’s most worthy are chosen. Candidates must have a connection to Oklahoma, full biographical information, outstanding civilian and/or patriotic service and most importantly, according to the Hall of Fame’s website, “The military record…must demonstrate heroic and/or extraordinary leadership action, service, or sacrifice; and principal awards received.”
Seating for the ceremony begins at 6:00 p.m. and the program starts at 6:30 p.m. The Embassy Suites Norman is at 2501 Conference Drive, Norman, Oklahoma. Seating is $95 per person, with a check, credit card or online payment due by Oct 28. Dress is Sunday best, business suit, Service Uniform or Mess Dress. For event details and to reserve seats, visit www.OKMHF.ORG or email INFO@OKMHF.ORG.