Local

Sen. James Lankford’s office offers help to Tulsa World War II veteran

TULSA, Okla. — A 98-year-old World War II veteran Gerald Smith continues to get support, this time from Senator James Lankford’s office.

His friend and neighbor Susan Gravitt got him to the hospital after seeing him fall, knowing he could no longer take care of himself at home.

“I met the nicest old man I have ever met in my life,” Gravitt said.

After she called FOX23 and we reached out to Quartermaster Michael Merit at VFW Post 577 things got rolling.

Sen. James Lankford’s office reached out to FOX23 and Merit to make sure he is taken care of and into the VA facility in Claremore where all his needs will be met.

“Senator Lankford’s office will get into contact and because it is a senator, it will get expedited. Our us representatives and senators are great resources for that especially if you need it in almost an immediate basis,” Merit said.

Merit calls it the VIP treatment for a hero.

“That is pretty special, and I think that speaks a lot about what his office cares about and our veterans that is a pretty neat thing to happen,” Merit said.

“We are extremely lucky and everyone really trying to work together, you all covering this story, Lankford’s offices reaching out, the home trying to help us, the VA home in Claremore and the general public, especially his friend who has done so much work for him.

FOX23 is told he is at the Village at Southern Hills where he has 19 more days to complete all his paperwork with a caretaker and will be sent to Claremore once that is completed.

Listen

news

weather

traffic

mobile apps

Everything you love about krmg.com and more! Tap on any of the buttons below to download our app.

amazon alexa

Enable our Skill today to listen live at home on your Alexa Devices!