 Oklahoma built and expanded numerous army and navy installations and air bases, which in turn brought thousands of well-paid jobs.Kerr went on to become a powerful Senator (1949–63) who watched out for the state's interests and especially for the oil and gas industry.Oklahoma consistently rated among the top 10 states in war-bond sales, as it used showmanship, the spirit of competition, house-to-house solicitations, and direct appeals to big business to mobilize patriotism, state pride, and the need to save some of the high wages that could not be spent because of rationing and shortages.