Oklahoma National Wild Turkey Federation

ATOKA, Okla.— Continuing their commitment to law enforcement, the National Wild Turkey Federation will honor Game Warden Larry Luman with the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation for his efforts in conserving America's wildlife.

Luman will be recognized as the NWTF's Oklahoma Wildlife Law Enforcement Officer of the Year during its 32nd annual Convention and Sport Show held Feb. 21 to Feb. 24, 2008, at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, Ga.

The NWTF initiated the State Wildlife Law Enforcement Officer of the Year award in 2000 to highlight the contributions from wildlife officers across the country.

"Without the tremendous level of support for wild turkey conservation from wildlife officers such as Mr. Luman, restoration efforts and wildlife management strategies would never have succeeded," said NWTF CEO Rob Keck. "We wanted to ensure that they receive the thanks and recognition they so richly deserve."

By earning the State Wildlife Officer of the Year award, Luman and other state winners are eligible for the NWTF's National Law Enforcement Officer of the Year award, which will be presented during the NWTF's Awards Banquet Saturday, Feb. 23 at the Convention and Sport Show.

Luman's territory includes Atoka County in southern Oklahoma, where numerous poachers have been arrested and prosecuted thanks to his efforts. He's even performed airplane surveillance throughout southeastern Oklahoma to apprehend poachers.

Luman is most proud of his interviewing and investigative skills, and says that solving cold cases brings him a lot of job satisfaction. Those who know him say he is a great asset to the Atoka County community, where he teaches hunter safety classes, archery workshops and attends NWTF-related functions. "I treat the public how I like to be treated; with respect and dignity," Luman said.

"We're proud to nominate Luman for this prestigious award," said Don Chitwood, NWTF regional director for eastern Oklahoma. "He has been instrumental in promoting America's hunting heritage and conserving wildlife populations for our future."