Native American Code Talkers played a vital role in World War I and World War II. They used their unique languages to create unbreakable codes for military communications, which gave U.S. forces a significant advantage in combat. This innovative approach allowed for secure communication that shook enemy forces, making it difficult for them to intercept vital information.
The use of Native American languages for military communication began during World War I. A conversation between Choctaw soldiers from the 142nd and 143rd Infantry Regiments led to the development of a code that effectively misled German troops. Their ability to quickly communicate tactical information ensured the success of various military operations. However, during World War II, this practice became more organized as contributions of Native American Code Talkers were essential to the Allied victory. The U.S. Marines recruited 29 Navajo men to develop a complex code based on the Navajo language. This code was incredibly effective and remained unbreakable by enemy forces throughout the war.
Hundreds of Native Americans served in the armed forces during these conflicts, using their languages to disrupt enemy communications. The effectiveness of their codes not only aided military strategy, but also saved countless lives by providing a reliable means of communication during battles.
On Nov. 20, 2013, a ceremony took place in Emancipation Hall at the U.S. Capitol to celebrate the contributions of 33 Native American tribes as code talkers during World Wars I and II. Out of these tribes, 25 were awarded Congressional Gold Medals.
According to the Code Talkers Recognition Act of 2008, the Secretary of the Treasury must issue Congressional Medals for Native American code talkers who employ their tribal languages for secure military communication. Each tribe with code talkers receives a distinctive gold medal. At the same time, silver duplicates are awarded to individual code talkers or their families, and bronze duplicates are available for public purchase.
Under a different statute, the Navajo Nation was already honored with Congressional Gold Medals in 2001. The tribes acknowledged in the 2013 ceremony included prominent groups like the Cherokee Nation, Choctaw Nation and Hopi Tribe. Two additional tribes, the Lower Brule Sioux Tribe and the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes, are scheduled to receive their medals in the future.
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Great short but enlightening read!
Grateful to have learned that Native American contributions to military communications actually began in WW1 with the Choctaw in the US Army, predating the more famous/popular Navajo USMC “code talkers.” I hope that someone will write a book or make a movie about this!
Long Over due!!!! OHRAH Marine Corps!
Im of Hispanic decent…. thank u for recognizing the American Indian attributes to our fight for freedom in WW 1 and WW 2. I don’t think many people realize this. I served 20 yrs in both the Army and Navy and am proud of it. I was hoping that after my 20 yrs there would be more to serve for the community. I don’t know where to find information on this. But my prayers are with those now serving and our president elect.
The American Indians are remarkable people who have so much knowledge that has currently be of help to people today,: an example is their drive to have 5 dams removed which has brought the return of trout, and, at the same time has helped farmers who were in great need of water. .