Basil Mitchell Tyer enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 1952 when he was 22 years old. He was stationed in Japan, Iceland, Vietnam, and Turkey, retiring as a Tech Sergeant in 1972. He received numerous ribbons and medals during his time in the Air Force. Upon his retirement, he settled back home in the Tahlequah area. Basil passed in 1992, at the age of 62, from stomach cancer caused by his proximity with Agent Orange while in Vietnam. He is survived by his wife Katherine and four children: Glenda, Evelyn, Becky, and Ronny.
I always remember my grandfather as a humble, quiet man who worked his farm with my granny. He never mentioned his time in the military or what he saw during the Vietnam War. And even though he has passed on, to be able to honor his sacrifice in this small way means a lot to myself and my family.

Tahlequah Proudly honors Basil M. Tyer who served as a Tech Sergeant in the United States Air Force from 1952-1972.