OKC Standard

The United States Senate and House of Representatives have approved a bill to name a new Veterans Health Administration hospital in Tulsa after the late Senator Jim Inhofe. The legislation, introduced by Oklahoma lawmakers Senator James Lankford, Senator Markwayne Mullin, and Representative Kevin Hern, seeks to honor Inhofe's long-standing commitment to military service members and veterans.

Senator Lankford emphasized the significance of this tribute, stating, "This is one of the most fitting honors we can give to Senator Inhofe for his decades of dedicated service to our veterans and their families." He highlighted Inhofe's role in shaping national defense policies and ensuring support for those who served in the armed forces.

Mullin echoed these sentiments: "No one is more deserving of this honor. Senator Inhofe was a tireless champion for Oklahoma’s military installations and defense communities." He expressed pride in naming the facility after Inhofe as a continuation of his legacy.

Representative Hern also praised Inhofe's dedication: "Senator James Mountain Inhofe was a towering figure who put his country and state above himself." He noted that naming the hospital after Inhofe would ensure his legacy continues.

Dr. Kayse Shrum from Oklahoma State University remarked on Inhofe's influence as an Army veteran, stating that naming the hospital after him demonstrates his leadership and dedication. Dr. Johnny Stephens added that having such a facility in Tulsa would significantly benefit veterans' health care access.

Courtney Knoblock from VHiT LLC shared how Inhofe's involvement assured local support for the project: "Once people heard Sen. Inhofe was behind the new veterans hospital in Tulsa, they absolutely knew it would happen."

Eastern Oklahoma hosts over 115,000 veterans, with many residing near Tulsa. The new hospital aims to serve up to 30 percent more veterans annually while reducing travel time for those seeking medical care.