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Tribal, State Officials Recognize National Navajo Code Talkers Day

Photo by Tom Grier/Navajo Oral History Project

Friday is national Navajo Code Talkers Day. Officials are recognizing the more than 400 soldiers who used their language during World War II to create an unbreakable code and help turn the tide of the war.

Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez and other leaders held a virtual tribute.

“At the time of their enlistment, they were very young men, but they answered the call of duty and unknowingly built a legacy for the Navajo people that is recognized throughout the world," says Nez. "By using our Navajo language to help win the war and protect the freedom that we have today, they set an example for us all. Although many have gone on to their final resting place, their actions and everything they stood for have lasting impacts on us all.” 

Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey is also honoring the Code Talkers, calling them “true American heroes.” The soldiers took part in every major operation involving the U.S. Marines in the Pacific Ocean theatre, including the battle of Iwo Jima where they flawlessly transmitted more than 800 messages.

There are four known surviving Navajo Code Talkers: Peter MacDonald, Samuel Sandoval, Thomas Begay and John Kinsel Senior.

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