Norman, OK – A long‑awaited tribute to World War II veteran MJ “Tex” Allison will finally be placed at his gravesite in Sunset Memorial Park Cemetery on Saturday. The plaque, secured after more than 50 years of effort by his family and the British Columbia Regiment, will recognize his service to both the United States and Canada.
Decades of advocacy
Allison, who died in 1976, was buried in an unmarked grave for half a century. His family never gave up the fight to have his sacrifice formally acknowledged. “It’s been several, several years, and his family has been patiently waiting and fighting, trying to get that done,” said Brandon Wright, the family service counselor at Primrose Funeral Home.
Why the unmarked grave?
In 1941, before the United States entered World War II, Allison left his U.S. Army post to enlist in the Canadian forces, hoping to reach the European front more quickly. He served with the British Columbia Regiment throughout the war. After the conflict, he returned to Texas, where a court‑martial and subsequent legal battles delayed any official recognition of his service.
Community and regiment step in
Allison’s former Canadian regiment partnered with his relatives to secure the plaque. “It is a tremendous opportunity to be able to honor a veteran that served our country and the country of Canada, as well,” said Andrew Ousley, location manager of Primrose Funeral. The cemetery officials expressed enthusiasm about finally correcting the historical oversight.
Service ceremony
The dedication ceremony will begin at 9 a.m. Saturday, open to the public. Wright said the event will include food, family, friends, and military representatives who will help with the service. “It’s going to be awesome. We’ll have some of the military here to help with those services,” he added.
Legacy of honor
Allison’s story underscores the importance of remembering those who served across borders and the power of persistent community advocacy. As the plaque is installed, his family and the regiment hope the gesture will inspire others to ensure that all veterans receive the recognition they deserve.
Original reporting: Oklahoma City News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
