Choctaw company shows military commitment

The flags are a symbol of the company's commitment to patriotism, Benefield said.

“There are men and women fighting every day,” he said. “We'll go above and beyond to support the soldiers.”

Colby Robinson, email and marketing director for the McAlester Chamber of Commerce, said he agrees.

“They have shown a strong commitment, not only to the troops, but to the entire community,” Robinson said. “They have participated in and manned many events in the city. Last year they participated in the Armed Forces Parade.”

Robinson said Choctaw Defense has had a positive impact on McAlester's economy.

“They have employed a lot of people in the city,” he said.

Benefield said Choctaw Defense currently employees over 200 people.

“One of our goals is to expand industry in southeast Oklahoma,” he said. “We offer jobs, good paying jobs to people during a time when it is most needed.”

Benefield said the recession has not affected workforce or production. In fact, he said, the company has doubled its labor force.

“All of all business is defense related. With budget crunches of the past, we were concerned we would start feeling the pain. But we have done nothing but prosper,” Benefield said.