Brad Henry in 2001-2009 gubernatorial press release

On Homeland Security: Honor Flight Network: fly vets to DC to visit their memorial

The governor announced that Oklahoma has become an official state hub of Honor Flight Network, Inc., a national non-profit organization that raises private funds to organize and finance trips to the nation's capital at no cost to the veteran. The hub designation, Oklahoma Honor Flights, allows the state chapter to raise funds to help pay the costs of Oklahoma veterans.

"It's a shame to think that many Oklahoma veterans may never get to see or experience the national monuments dedicated to their service and sacrifice," said Gov. Henry. "With the help of Oklahoma Honor Flights, we can salute their heroism and give them the chance to see their national memorials in person. We owe so much to our veterans and this is a small way to demonstrate our gratitude for their service."

On Homeland Security: Full confidence in DHS during Threat Level Orange

The increase in the Oklahoma and National Threat Levels does not affect general aviation airports or passengers. "I have been, and will continue to be, in direct consultation with the Oklahoma Homeland Security Director, as well as federal Homeland Security officials," said Gov. Henry. "I have full confidence in the homeland security, law enforcement and aviation communities in our state, and I ask that Oklahomans be patient in the coming days and weeks as the airport security personnel do their jobs to ensure public safety."

On War & Peace: Visits troops in Iraq, on the frontlines of war on terrorism

"It's a great honor to meet with the Oklahoma troops who are serving on the frontlines in Iraq," said Henry. "They have an awesome responsibility on their shoulders, and with it come obvious challenges and hardships. Our soldiers are true American heroes, and we pray for them everyday."

Gov. Henry began his trip earlier this week with classified briefings at the Pentagon in Washington, D.C., and a meeting with U.S. Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld. The Governor landed in Kuwait on Thursday and had dinner with airmen at Camp Arifijhan. Early Friday, he arrived in Iraq, where he met with Oklahoma troops, including members of Oklahoma's 158th Field Artillery, stationed at Camp Victory and in Baghdad.

On Environment: Created the State Park Foundation for capital improvements

I recently had the pleasure of signing into law House Bill 2318, a measure creating the State Park Foundation. The mission of this private entity is to bolster our state parks system through educational programming, capital improvements and private sponsorships.

The travel and tourism industry represents a major component of our state's economy. In fact, a recent study by the Travel Industry Association of America found that direct domestic travel spending in Oklahoma reached nearly $3.9 billion in 2002 and produced more than 69,000 jobs within Oklahoma. This summer, I encourage you to explore and enjoy all the beauty that our magnificent state has to offer.