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Okmulgee Cafe Builds 'Wall of Honor' to Recognize Local Veterans
Kirby's Cafe owner Belinda Van Buskirk leads community effort to pay tribute to those who have served in the U.S. military.
Mar. 20, 2026 at 4:07pm
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In Okmulgee, Oklahoma, the owner of Kirby's Cafe, Belinda Van Buskirk, has spearheaded a community project to create a 'Wall of Honor' dedicated to recognizing local veterans and active-duty service members. The wall features photographs, newspaper clippings, and personal mementos submitted by families to honor their loved ones who have served, regardless of branch or era.
Why it matters
The Wall of Honor at Kirby's Cafe provides a heartfelt way for the Okmulgee community to come together and express gratitude for the sacrifices of those who have served in the U.S. military. In a time of global uncertainty, the project serves as a unifying tribute that acknowledges the freedoms enjoyed daily are because of the service and dedication of these individuals.
The details
The Wall of Honor is steadily filling with submissions from community members, including formal portraits in uniform as well as candid snapshots that capture moments during service. Van Buskirk has made the process simple, allowing people to bring photos to the cafe or text them directly to be printed and displayed. The wall includes service members from all branches, both current and former, as well as those who are no longer with us. Van Buskirk emphasizes that every single submission matters equally, as the wall is meant to honor the quiet heroes who rarely seek recognition for their service.
- Kirby's Cafe began the Wall of Honor project in early 2026.
- The cafe continues to accept new submissions from the community to add to the growing display.
The players
Belinda Van Buskirk
The owner of Kirby's Cafe in Okmulgee, Oklahoma, who is leading the community effort to create the Wall of Honor.
Kirby's Cafe
A small-town cafe in Okmulgee, Oklahoma, that is hosting the Wall of Honor project to recognize local veterans and active-duty service members.
What they’re saying
“Just a little thank you to our military”
— Belinda Van Buskirk, Owner, Kirby's Cafe
“It doesn't matter if they're current or former. It doesn't matter what branch. It doesn't matter if they're gone or alive. Because they're the reason we get to come in and sit down and eat with our family.”
— Belinda Van Buskirk, Owner, Kirby's Cafe
“Our goal is to fill the wall.”
— Belinda Van Buskirk, Owner, Kirby's Cafe
“You wouldn't know that's him. They don't want any glory for themselves ... they did what they did because they love the country.”
— Belinda Van Buskirk, Owner, Kirby's Cafe
“That's real. That's you ... you had a life while you were over there serving for us.”
— Belinda Van Buskirk, Owner, Kirby's Cafe
What’s next
Kirby's Cafe continues to invite the public to submit photos and mementos to be added to the growing Wall of Honor display.
The takeaway
The Wall of Honor at Kirby's Cafe is a powerful example of how a small community can come together to express gratitude and appreciation for the service and sacrifice of local veterans and active-duty military members, creating a lasting tribute that brings people together and reminds them of the freedoms they enjoy every day.
