HAPPY VALLEY, Ore. – Six Oregon military veterans were formally inducted into the 2026 Oregon Military Hall of Honor during a ceremony held April 18 at Camp Withycombe, recognizing their heroism and exceptional service to the nation.
This year’s inductees—Specialist 5th Class Carston R. “Bud” Calkin, Sergeant First Class Riley E. Lott Jr., Command Sergeant Major Bruck Conley, Major Charles “Larry” Diebert, Lieutenant Colonel Leonard DeWitt, and General Daniel R. Hokanson—all served in the U.S. Army or the Oregon Army National Guard.
“The men chosen for this year’s Oregon Military Hall of Honor have shown acts of valor ‘above and beyond the call of duty,’ as well as exceptional post-service contribution in the community or state,” said Daniel Lacy, who served as master of ceremonies and is a member of the Forward Assist Board of Directors.
Conley and Hokanson, both of whom began their military careers on active duty before transitioning to the Oregon National Guard, addressed attendees during the ceremony. They reflected on careers that ultimately led them to senior leadership roles at the Pentagon.
“This story is about the Oregon National Guard, and the organization that learned to love,” Conley said. “I became a team leader as I focused on being a guardsman and citizen-soldier.”
Four of the six inductees—Calkin, Lott, Diebert, and DeWitt—were honored posthumously, with tributes delivered by family members, friends, and fellow veterans.
As the final speaker, Hokanson emphasized the importance of service and the responsibility veterans carry to inspire future generations.
“I look at the example that each of us sets. I go back to whether someone served or not; that’s important in how we conduct ourselves,” Hokanson said. “We also need to tell our story to the next generation. That’s why today’s event is important.”
About the Author
Discover more from Right Now Oregon
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
