Today’s #VeteranOf TheDay is Arcenio Smiley.

Arcenio enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1944. During his tour of duty, he served as a Navajo Code Talker. He spent some time stationed in the Pacific, according to a press release from the Navajo Nation Office.

He was awarded a Good Conduct Medal and the Congressional Silver Medal for his service as a code talker.

Arcenio was honorably discharged in 1946.

Following his time in the service, Arcenio worked for the Navajo Service Warehouse, the Gallup Navajo Clinic, and the Gallup Indian Medial Center Office of Environmental Health.

Arcenio passed away earlier this month. We honor his service.


Nominate a Veteran for #VeteranOfTheDay

Do you want to light up the face of a special Veteran? Have you been wondering how to tell your Veteran they are special to you? You’re in luck! VA’s #VeteranOfTheDay social media feature is an opportunity to highlight your Veteran and his/her service..

It’s easy to nominate a Veteran. All it takes is an email to newmedia@va.gov with as much of the information as you can put together with some good photos. Visit our blog post about nominating for how to create the best submission.


Photo credit: Background used from True Whispers

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