ODMHSAS Honors 250 Years of Military Service as Interim Commissioner Slavonic Launches New Chapter of Accountability and Growth

On this Independence Day, as the nation commemorates 250 years of strength and sacrifice by the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps and Army, the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (ODMHSAS) proudly honors the generations of veterans and their spouses whose service and resilience continue to shape our state.

“This milestone is a powerful reminder of what it means to serve,” said ODMHSAS Interim Commissioner Greg Slavonic, a retired U.S. Navy Rear Admiral. “As a veteran, I understand firsthand the sacrifices made, not just by those in uniform, but by the families who support them. At ODMHSAS, we are committed to honoring that legacy by providing the care and support veterans have earned.” 

This announcement marks Interim Commissioner Slavonic’s first public statement since taking the helm at ODMHSAS. In just a few weeks, he has begun implementing key changes to restore organizational structure, rebuild employee trust and ensure responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars. With a clear focus on transparency, accountability and stability, Slavonic is leading the agency through a period of renewed purpose.

“Veterans represent the very best of Oklahoma,” Slavonic said. “And it is our duty to meet their strength with services rooted in dignity, respect and compassion. We’re not just responding to need, we’re building a system worthy of their sacrifice.” 

Oklahoma’s veterans face unique behavioral health challenges, including higher rates of trauma, substance use and suicide. In FY24 alone, ODMHSAS served nearly 10,000 self-reported veterans underscoring both the need for and the impact of specialized mental health services. Through the 988 Mental Health Lifeline—free to call or text 24/7—veterans and their families have immediate access to trained professionals, including fellow veterans who understand their experience and can offer support grounded in shared service. Veterans can access this specialized support by dialing 988 and then pressing 1.

As Oklahoma families, military bases and communities reflect on 250 years of military excellence, ODMHSAS is taking crucial steps so that service doesn’t end when the uniform comes off.