'They were veterans first': American Legion post launches at Joseph Harp Correctional Center

“They were veterans first.” In a 2013 American Legion Commander’s Message, then-National Commander James E. Koutz recounts being asked by fellow Legionnaires why a Legion post would exist inside a prison. His response: “They were veterans first.”

This sentiment is why the Oklahoma Department of Corrections is proud to announce the establishment of Price Junior Satterfield Post No. 2024, an American Legion post within Joseph Harp Correctional Center in Lexington, Okla. This unique initiative, led by honorably discharged veteran inmates, was created to provide crucial support for veterans in custody, offering a unique opportunity for community building and assistance in securing veterans' benefits.

Named in honor of Price Junior Satterfield, a World War II veteran from Peggs, Okla., Post No. 2024 joins approximately 30 American Legion posts within correctional facilities across 12 other states. Satterfield served in the U.S. Army in Africa and Italy and was on his way to the Pacific when the war ended. He is remembered for his commitment to service. His grandson, Iraq veteran and JHCC inmate Levi Nichols, generously offered his family’s legacy to establish the post, allowing incarcerated veterans to connect with one another and honor their shared commitment to service.

Approximately 4.5% of ODOC’s population self-report as veterans, compared to a national average of nearly 8% of incarcerated individuals in state prisons who are veterans. Many of these veterans face unique challenges during incarceration, including difficulties in accessing their earned benefits and a lack of camaraderie with fellow veterans. Establishing the Price Junior Satterfield Post No. 2024 is a meaningful step in addressing these challenges, providing resources for reintegration and support within JHCC.

The mission of Price Junior Satterfield Post No. 2024 includes:


• Supporting fellow veterans within JHCC by helping them access earned benefits.

• Creating a sense of camaraderie among incarcerated veterans.

• Improving the facility's community through meaningful volunteer initiatives.

• Promoting the values of The American Legion to further its broader goals.
  

The establishment of Post No. 2024 will be commemorated on Veterans Day with a special ceremony at JHCC, where two of PFC Satterfield’s children, Brenda Satterfield and Sandra Newman, will be presented with a copy of the Temporary Charter issued by the American Legion’s National Department. This honor recognizes both Satterfield’s legacy and the significant strides made by veterans within JHCC.

“We’re immensely grateful to the Satterfield family for this opportunity to honor PFC Satterfield’s service and provide veterans here with the support and purpose that military service so often brings,” expressed JHCC Warden David Rogers.

ODOC remains steadfast in its commitment to transforming lives by enhancing programs that support its incarcerated population, and the establishment of Price Junior Satterfield Post No. 2024 marks an important milestone for Oklahoma’s incarcerated veterans.

Many veterans find themselves following the wrong path after their service, resulting in a prison sentence. But it is essential to remember, “They were veterans first,” not only on Veterans Day but every day.