The first phase of The Oklahoma Veteran’s Memorial was unveiled in November 1986.  Leading the way on the north side of the present Oklahoma Supreme Court building is “The Big Guy,” a statue standing 8 ½ feet tall on a 3 ½ foot pedestal which displays the Oklahoma State Seal. His bronze face has the features of a Native American and he wears the gear of a Vietnam era soldier reminding Oklahomans of their roots and roles in the protection of this nation.

Behind him are four walls with bas relief bronze panels that depict scenes which represent World War I, World War II, Korea and Viet Nam.  Respectfully located on the opposite side of the walls facing “The Big Guy” are the names of those Oklahomans who were killed in action during those wars, as a constant reminder of our loved ones who paid the ultimate price to preserve the freedom of this nation.

In line with the south door of the Oklahoma State Capitol building and “The Big Guy” is the “Eternal Flame” which is a reminder to never forget that “greater love hath no man than to lay down his life for his friends.”

Flanking the “Eternal Flame” are poles flying the flags of each branch of the Armed Forces of the United States, along with the Oklahoma flag and “Old Glory” honorably in the center.

On December 7, 1999, a memorial to the USS Oklahoma was unveiled.  It was dedicated to those sailors and marines killed on that ship during the attack on Pearl Harbor, December 7, 1941.