(OKLAHOMA CITY) – The Oklahoma Veterans Commission is pleased to announce the election of new leadership for the Board of Commissioners for Fiscal Year 2025. The elections took place on June 10, 2024, during the Commission’s regularly scheduled meeting to conclude FY24.
Commissioner Brett Martin was unanimously voted in as the new Chairman of the Board, succeeding former Chairman Rob Allen at the conclusion of his term. Chairman Martin’s term officially began on July 1, 2024. Martin, a resident of Oklahoma City, is an active member of the Oklahoma American Legion. He brings an extensive and decorated military background to the position, having earned numerous commendations, including the Legion of Merit Medal (gold star), Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal (two gold stars), Navy Commendation Medal (four gold stars), Joint Service Achievement Medal (one oak leaf cluster), Navy Achievement Medal (three gold stars), and various theater, sea, and service medals.
“I am honored to have been chosen to lead the Oklahoma Veterans Commission and am committed to continuing our work to support and advocate for our veterans,” said Chairman Martin. “I look forward to continuing our important work with my fellow commissioners and ODVA to ensure we meet the needs of our veteran community.”
Outgoing Chairman Rob Allen expressed his confidence in the new leadership team, stating, “I am confident that under Brett Martin’s leadership, the Oklahoma Veterans Commission will continue to thrive and make significant strides in our mission to support Oklahoma’s veterans. I am grateful for the opportunity to have served and am excited for the future of the Commission.”
In addition to Chairman Martin, the Commission also elected Dr. Sidney Ellington, a retired Naval Special Warfare (SEAL) Officer as Vice Chairman, and Kevin Offel, former Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army (CASA) and West Point graduate, as Secretary.
The Oklahoma Veterans Commission remains dedicated to its mission of providing comprehensive support and services to the state’s veteran population. The new leadership team will continue to focus on enhancing benefits, improving access to healthcare, and fostering community partnerships to better serve Oklahoma’s veterans.
For more information about the Oklahoma Veterans Commission, please visit https://oklahoma.gov/veterans/about-odva/veterans-commission.html or contact the Commission’s office at (405) 523-4000.
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