House honors World War II veteran and welcomes pages and visiting professionals

The Oklahoma House paused routine business Monday to recognize a World War II veteran and to welcome pages, visiting students and two professionals introduced as 'doctor of the day' and 'psychologist of the day.'

Representative Stairs and Senator Bill Coleman presented a citation honoring Morris Dean Neighbors, who the citation says was born Oct. 25, 1925, enlisted at 17, served in multiple World War II Pacific battles and earned campaign medals and a Purple Heart. Members stood for Neighbors to lead the Pledge of Allegiance and a short reception was announced in the Speaker’s conference room.

Separately, the House heard introductions for Dr. Aruki (pulmonary physician focused on lung cancer research) and Dr. Jeff Martindale (licensed psychologist and director of behavioral health services, involved in AI work for behavioral health), and members applauded several student pages and the 2025 Fast Pitch State Champion Oktaha Lady Tigers when they were presented on the floor.

Those recognitions and introductions were ceremonial and took place before the House returned to bill business for the afternoon.