Johnny Jack Kidwell

Johnny was born and raised in northeast Oklahoma. He enlisted into the U.S. Coast Guard, received his commission as an officer seven years later, and then retired after 20-plus years of service at the rank of Lieutenant Commander.

Johnny’s military career encompassed many diverse operations in locations around the world. Johnny’s personal decorations include the Bronze Star Medal and Meritorious Service Medal, and he is a proud recipient of the Cherokee Warrior Medal of Patriotism. Most recently, Johnny was inducted into the U. S. Coast Guard OCS “Wall of Gallantry” for distinguished and valiant service.

Johnny currently serves on the Council of the Cherokee Nation where he represents over 320,000 Cherokee citizens worldwide. Johnny holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Oklahoma and three master's degrees: San Diego State University, Southern Nazarene University, and a Master of Legal Studies in Indigenous Peoples Law from the University of Oklahoma, College of Law.