Tricia Bear is a name synonymous with service, dedication, and excellence in the Henryetta area. A retired Sergeant First Class with over 21 years of military service in the Marines and Army, Tricia’s

SEE CULINARY COMMAND POST, PAGE A6 life has been a testament to her unyielding commitment to her country, her fellow veterans, and her community. Now, she’s bringing that same passion to the kitchen as the host of The Culinary Command Post on The Henryettan TV.

With a military career marked by distinction, Bear served during Operation Enduring Freedom in Baghdad in 2008. Her assignments included the Fort Chaffee Maneuver Training Center, the 39th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, the 2/142nd Field Artillery, and four years with the 2nd Marine Division HQBN Communications Company at Camp Lejeune. Earning seven military occupational specialties during her career, Tricia’s discipline and adaptability have seamlessly transitioned into her civilian pursuits.

Today, Bear is a dedicated Veteran Service Officer for VFW Post 539 in Henryetta and Chapter 20 of the Disabled American Veterans in Krebs. Her advocacy has impacted the lives of over 600 veterans, helping them secure essential VA benefits. Programs like “Feed the Vets,” which provides food for 125 veterans and their families quarterly, exemplify her dedication to those who have served.

Beyond veterans’ services, Tricia has embraced her culinary passion. A 2022 graduate of OSUIT’s Culinary Department, she combines her military precision with culinary artistry on her show, The Culinary Command Post. The program’s tagline, “Where recipes are executed with precision,” captures the spirit of her unique approach. This Sunday at 2 p.m., Tricia will debut her latest episode, Carrot Cake Cookies Culinary Command Post with Tricia Bear (Season 1, Episode 3), where she blends creativity and skill to produce mouthwatering dishes.

Her influence extends far beyond the kitchen. As a 2021 OSUIT Newman Civic Award Recipient, Bear has contributed to initiatives like OSUIT Pete’s Pantry and has been a pivotal figure in the Oklahoma Restaurant Association Culinary Cook-Off for the past five years. She’s also an accomplished poet and songwriter, penning the original song March on Soldiers in memory of her late brother.

Living in Henryetta with her husband John and their 12 beloved dogs, Tricia continues to inspire through her work ethic, creativity, and compassion.

Beginning in January, tune in every Sunday at 2 p.m. to catch new episodes of The Culinary Command Post and experience how Tricia Bear executes her recipes with precision, creativity, and heart. Whether serving her country, her community or a delicious dish, Tricia proves that service is a lifelong calling.