Press Release
December 2, 2013
Larry O'DellOklahoma Historical Society
lodell@okhistory.org
Oklahoma History Center announces a special exhibit to commemorate the capture of Saddam Hussein
The Oklahoma History Center announced today a limited advance preview of a special exhibit to mark the 10th anniversary of the capture of the former Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein. Highlighting the display is a European-tailored service uniform worn by Saddam Hussein.
“We’re very excited to have this exhibit,” remarked Dr. Bob Blackburn, executive director of the Oklahoma Historical Society. “It is not every day that such historic items from recent history can be viewed by the public and we are very proud of the ties they have to Oklahoma.”
Those Oklahoma ties are in reference to the owner of the items, retired Army Lt. Col. and former Oklahoma State Senator Steve Russell, who is generously loaning the collection for a special temporary exhibit.
“For years I have kept low key about these artifacts,” reflected Russell as the 10th anniversary nears. “I realize that they are an incredible part of our nation’s history that should be enjoyed by the public and hope the display will call to remembrance the soldiers wounded and lost during the hunt and capture of Saddam.”
Russell, who was one of the key leaders in the hunt for Saddam, is also the author of the critically acclaimed book “We Got Him!” (Simon & Schuster 2011), his personal memoir of the hunt and capture of Saddam.
The special exhibit preview, which includes rare uniforms, firearms and other items, will be from 5-8 PM CST, Dec. 9, 2013, at the Oklahoma History Center and is open to the public. The exhibit will be open to the general public later in December. The event will include preview access to the display, a Q & A with Lt. Col. Russell and a book signing. More information can be found at www.okhistory.org or by calling 405-522-0765.
For media arrangements, please contact the Oklahoma History center at 405-522-5248.
Interviews with Steve Russell can be arranged at 405-708-8562 or srussell0525@sbcglobal.net or through Debra Purinton at 405-919-4341.
