Rare Saddam Hussein Uniform To Be Displayed At OK History Center

The Oklahoma History Center will unveil a special Saddam Hussein exhibit to mark the 10th anniversary of the capture of the former Iraqi dictator.

Officials say the highlight of the display will be a European tailored service uniform worn by Saddam.

"We're very excited to have this exhibit," said Dr. Bob Blackburn, Executive Director of the center. "It is not every day that such historic items can be viewed by the public and we are very proud of the ties they have to Oklahoma."

Those Oklahoma ties are in reference to the owner of the items, retired Army Lt. Col. and former Oklahoma State Senator Steve Russell, who is generously loaning the collection for a special temporary exhibit.

"For years I have kept low key about these artifacts," said Russell as the 10th anniversary nears. "I realize that they are an incredible part of our nation's history that should be enjoyed by the public and hope the display will call to remembrance the soldiers wounded and lost during the hunt and capture of Saddam."

Russell, who was one of the key leaders in the hunt for Saddam, is also the author of the critically acclaimed book "We Got Him," his personal memoir of the hunt and capture of Saddam.

The historic unveiling, which includes rare uniforms, firearms and other items, will be from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Dec. 9, 2013 at the Oklahoma History Center and is open to the public. The event will include the display, a Q & A with Lt. Col. Russell and a book signing.

Learn more about the event at www.okhistory.org or call (405) 522-5248.