Expansion planned for the Pierce St. John military cemetery in Osage County

NEWS RELEASE

By A. M. Jefferson, Osage Nation Communications

Osage Nation, Pawhuska, Okla. (Mar. 24, 2015)—Memorial Day is approaching and with it comes a time to remember those who have served our country as we decorate their graves.

After the World War in 1918, full blood Osage Original Allottee #623 Pierce St. John was moved by the number of returning veterans who had no place for their burial. He and wife Opal would eventually have a portion of their Osage allotment surveyed, designating a one-acre spot for Native veterans.

Opal St. John later donated the military cemetery to the government for its protection and care in the event the property left the St. John family.

However, the cemetery is not fenced to include the full acre of land set aside, and currently is filled to capacity. William St. John, descendant and owner of the Pierce St. John allotment, has a vision to fulfill his great-grandmother’s original wish.

On Monday evening, William met with the American Legion at Post 198 about funding in order to expand the cemetery. John Henry Mashunkashey made the first motion to provide funds. At the end of the evening, William St. John was told his project would receive financial assistance.

St. John, a member of the Osage Nation, also approached Principal Chief Geoffrey Standing Bear who was excited about the project.

St. John will also be setting up an account for future donations. For more information, contact him at 918-260-1256 or email william.stjohn@gmail.com.

For media inquiries, contact Osage Nation Communications at 918-287-5599.