OPEA

Long-time OPEA member and Executive Director of the Department of Veterans Affairs Phillip L. Driskill retired July 31, after 37 years of dedicated service to ODVA and the citizens of Oklahoma.

Driskill joined OPEA in 1985, when he was the Assistant Administrator at the Talihina Veterans Center and supported the association throughout his career.  He also served as Claremore Veterans Center Administrator for thirteen years and seven years as the agency director.

“I remember my first OPEA meeting,” said Driskill.  “At that time administrators were not involved in the organization and they didn’t want to let me in.”

“OPEA now has several agency directors and administrators who are members of the association,” said OPEA Executive Director Sterling Zearley.  “Phil was one of the first to understand that a strong employee organization is in the best interest of the agency and its clients.” 

OPEA worked with the agency recently when the Norman Veterans Center came under attack by public officials and the media.

During his career in state service Driskill received numerous awards including AMVETS National “Man of the Year”, Veterans of WWI National Award for Service, United States Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary’s Award for Service to the Nation, and many others.

“He was my mentor,” said Michelle Sexton, former OPEA Board member and an employee at the Norman Veterans Center.  “I respect and admire him.  He always put the veteran first.  He taught me to base my decisions on the best interest of the veteran and you will never go wrong.  I will never forget him saying that to me.”