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When we think about Native American heritage, the images of a head dress, dream catchers and other artifacts immediately come to mind. But American Indian culture is so much more than that.
Native American culture is rich with history, courage, fighting spirit and tradition. The month of November has been dedicated to the commemoration of Native American/Indian and Alaska natives’ immeasurable contributions.
In 1915, the annual Congress of the American Indian Association in Kansas, led by their president Reverend Sherman Coolidge, an Arapahoe, approved a plan to commemorate American Indian Day.
On December of the following year, Red Fox James, a Blackfoot Indian, rode horseback from state to state seeking approval for a day to honor Indians. He showed up at the White House with signatures and support from 24 states to celebrate American Indian Day.
In May 1916, New York became the first state to observe the day. In 1990, President George H. W. Bush approved a joint resolution designating November as “National American Indian Heritage Month.” Similar proclamations have been issued since then.
The accomplishments of the indigenous people to the growth of our nation are countless, and just as impressive are the substantial contributions they made to American military forces. Their involvement in the armed forces dates back to the Civil War, World War I and World War II.
One of the most recognizable military achievements is that of the legendary Navajo Code Talkers. This group of Native American warriors took part in every assault the U.S. Marines conducted in the Pacific from 1942 to 1945. They served in all Marine divisions, transmitting messages by telephone and radio in their native language. The use of this Navajo unbreakable code played a pivotal role in saving countless lives and hastening the end of World War II.
During numerous military campaigns, American Indians have served honorably and exhibited their courage.
In the 20th century, eight American Indians have been among those soldiers to be distinguished with the highest military honor: the Medal of Honor.
Their heroism of the past is echoed in today’s contingencies, where many Native Americans continue to serve proudly. Military members like Army Spc. Lori Piestewa, who was the first female Native American to die in combat while supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
In the Air Force, 7 percent of our active-duty forces are of American Indian and Alaskan Native decent. Airman like Master Sgt. Brent Jordan, 700th Contracting Squadron, who is a member of the Colville tribe, said, “Being a young
Native American boy enlisting in the Air Force, the adaptation to the military lifestyles were similar due to the deep rooted cultures both commonly
shared.”
Jordan, as well as many other Native American service members, continue to carry on the legacy and remind us of their courageous warrior spirit.
(Courtesy of Equal Opportunity Office)
