FORT BENNING, Ga., (Nov. 20, 2013) -- Centuries before the establishment of the United States military, the first Americans lived by their own unique warrior ethos to protect their people and the land.
November marks Native American Heritage Month, and Fort Benning held its annual observance of Native American military achievements Thursday at the Kelley Hill Recreation Center.
Native American Indian Heritage Month has been celebrated since March 1992, when President George H.W. Bush signed a law to celebrate the achievements of Native American Indians.
Sgt. 1st Class Conrad J. Begaye, keynote speaker, addressed the theme, "Guiding our Destiny with Heritage and Traditions." Begaye, a full-blood Navajo from Arizona, enlisted in the Army in 1999 and is currently assigned to 5th Ranger Training Battalion, as an instructor on the mountaineering team. He has deployed multiple times to Iraq and Afghanistan.
"American Indians have participated with distinction in the United States military actions for more than 200 years," he said. "Just like our military heritage and traditions, we American Indians have our own. From prayers in the morning as the sun rises, to tobacco offered to our elders, ceremonies to hold and help cleanse the mind, body and soul, to celebrations for our baby's first laugh and changes in seasons and of course, our military service."
Long before the conception of Comprehensive Soldier and Family Fitness, Native American warriors used the medicine wheel concept to balance their mental, physical, emotional and spiritual well being, said Chaplain (Capt.) William Beaver of the 3rd Brigade Special Troops Battalion. During the event, Beaver displayed replicas of American Indian artifacts and crafts for guests to view. Students from Stewart County Middle School were also recognized for their participation in writing essays about Native American culture.
Begaye said that the military consists of many nationalities and cultures, each with a special purpose and contribution to America.
"The spirit of the warrior runs through every drop of blood in our veins -- it is the essential element of our soul," he said. "I urge all of our brothers and sisters in arms, no matter what nationality you are, to live each day with honor. Never forget your legendary history and traditions of the United States military."
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