Memorial Day 2021
I wanted to take a moment to honor those who have served our country and who have paid the ultimate sacrifice. I specifically want to emphasize and remind others of the role tribes have had in our military.
Native Americans have a complicated and unique history when it comes to the United States Armed forces, but a proud one. Native Americans have served, and died, in every major conflict for more than 200 years:
American Revolutionary War (1775-1783)
Allied tribes supported the colonies with scouts and warriors during the struggle to establish a free nation.
Civil War (1861-1865)
Tribes fought on both sides of the conflict, with most supporting the Union.
World War I (1917-1918)
Tens of thousands volunteered to serve even though they were technically not American citizens (the Indian Citizenship Act passed in 1924).
World War II (1941-1945)
The legendary Navajo Code Talkers (an unbreakable code even to this very day) was crucial for victory.
Vietnam War (1955-1975)
90% of the tens of thousand enlisted tribal servicemen were there voluntarily -above and beyond the draft.
Many other conflicts (1775-Present)
Native Americans have always answered the call to serve our country. In our modern U.S. military today, American Indians and Native Alaskans have carried on a tradition of service and sacrifice, as they serve at a higher rate than any other demographic in the entire country.
Native American service members have stepped up to serve the United States with distinction, dedicating their lives to protecting this country no matter the cost. Our warrior spirit leads us to fight for our survival and to protect our way of life -our values, customs, culture, and our people. This includes all the American people and its principles (life, liberty, the pursuit of happiness, freedom of religion, justice, and freedom for all, etc.).
The cost of freedom is sometimes high but we as Americans have never been unwilling to pay that price. “Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.” Today we remember and honor those who have fallen in service of this land of the free and this home of the brave.
Happy Memorial Day!