MuskogeePhoenix.com, Muskogee, OK

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August 28, 2010

THE PEOPLE SPEAK: Oklahoma hospitality a healing experience

I am John Joyner, known in 1971 as Redskin 58.

Sadly, I was not able to attend Donald Wann’s memorial service or meet his family and friends.

However, my brother Redskins kept me posted as events unfolded, doing their best to keep me with them during the days leading up to Don’s internment at Fort Gibson.

Allow me to take a moment and briefly tell you how the folks of Muskogee made my brothers feel:

I’ve talked with several of my Redskin brothers and, to a man, they’ve told me that the reception laid out for them in Muskogee is the most healing experience of their lives.

The common response has been, “It was the ‘Welcome Home’ we never had.”

Three of my brothers, in all sincerity, told me they are selling their homes and moving to Oklahoma.

One said, “For the first time in 30 years, I felt like I was in America again.”

As for me, it only deepens my regret in not being there.

For the love, respect and “Welcome Home” you gave to my brothers, I shall always have my heart, my thanks, and my prayers directed toward Muskogee, Oklahoma, USA.

John P. Joyner

Coarsegold, Calif.

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