Editorial: Navajo Code Talkers deserve recognition

Wednesday, August 22, 2007  

"American Indians have served in the United States military for more than 200 years.

But where did we learn that?

For many of us, it certainly wasn't from our school history books.

So when National Code Talker Day took place Aug. 14, it was a proud day for this country, and especially for the Navajo Nation and all other American Indian tribes who have served our country.

"In reference to communications in war time, their achievements have never been matched," said Michael Smith, clerk at the Navajo Nation Supreme Court and the Window Rock liaison for the Navajo Code Talkers Association. "To use a native language to create a code and use that in battle and have it never broken or deciphered by any enemy is a remarkable achievement. Generals and commanders credit the code talkers for saving hundreds of lives."

With the Navajo Nation officially recognizing the crucial role the Navajo played in World War II, a part of our history was recognized and restored so that today's youth will not go without a complete understanding of the effort behind building our great nation."

Get the Story:
Editorial: Code Talkers starting to get due recognition (The Farmington Daily Times 8/22)

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