Oklahoma's Last Vietnam Veteran Retires From The National Guard

It's the end of an era in a lifetime of service for one member of the Oklahoma National Guard. He is the state's last Vietnam veteran and he's retiring this week.

Oklahoma National Guard's last Vietnam Veteran won't have to wear the same uniform anymore, but there's no hiding his dedication and sacrifice this modest veteran has given to our country and state.

Chief Warrant Officer Ronald Petty has worn seven or eight versions of this uniform almost every day of his life. As he reflects on his 40 years, this Vietnam Veteran doesn't like to talk about his combat.

"Military makes you grow up real fast," Petty said. "

Petty married his high school sweetheart, Janet, and had two boys, both are just like their dad, especially Eric.

"He was actually born to be a soldier, that's what he was intended to be. He would not have been happy doing anything else," Petty said.

Here at headquarters, the career guardsman focused on his mission, helping Oklahoma soldiers. Both Kyle and Eric went off to help with operation enduring freedom.

Eric paid the ultimate sacrifice in Iraq.

"He wouldn't have wanted to do anything else, he took care of his guys and they all came back home," Petty said.

Chief Warrant Officer Petty is packing up. He couldn't be prouder and looks forward to his next mission.

Petty plans on spending time with family, visiting his son Kyle in Kentucky and their grandson, Colton. He's a private first class in the Oklahoma National Guard.