NATIVE AMERICANS IN THE U.S. ARMY
INTRODUCTION
Throughout our nation's history, Native Americans have served valiantly and with distinction in times of peace and war, while also fighting for the right to be an equal part of our nation. We recognize their rich heritage and honor their spirit and true devotion to our country. Native Americans have a distinguished legacy in the Army - many thousands have served in the armed forces from the early days of the Revolutionary War, with the Lewis and Clark expedition, as Scouts with the U.S. Cavalry and as Code Talkers in World War II.
We give sincere thanks and appreciation for the past and present contributions Native American Soldiers, civilians and family members have made. We know there is strength in diversity. We are Army Strong because we not only place great value in having different perspectives, approaches, and skills but also because we value having ethnic and cultural diversity.
Featured Historical Image - Codetalkers
A squad of Choctaw Code Talkers in Camp Merritt, New Jersey. From left: Cpl. Solomon Bond Louis, Pvt. Mitchell Bobb, Cpl. James Edwards, Cpl. Calvin Wilson, Pvt. George (James) Davenport, Cpt. Elijah W. Horner. Photographer: Joseph K. Dixon | The Indiana University Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology. National Museum of the U.S. Army.
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Honoring Their Sacrifice and Service
Louis Lucky Cloud was drafted in 1943 and served as an 82nd Airborne Division paratrooper. On June 6, 1944, he and his fellow paratroopers jumped into Normandy and seized St. Mere Eglise. Among his many medals is the Bronze Star. Cloud was a warrior in the tradition of his grandfather, Pax-an-'pín, whose Yakama name he has taken for his own.
Medal of Honor Recipients
The Medal of Honor is the nation's highest medal for valor in combat that can be awarded to members of the armed forces. The medal was first authorized in 1861. Since then, more than 3,400 Medals of Honor have been awarded to members of all DOD services and the Coast Guard, as well as to a few civilians who distinguished themselves with valor. Of these recipients, 29 are Native American Soldiers.
Featured Historical Image - Codetalkers
Crow chief Plenty Coups with other dignitaries attend the interment of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery, Va., Nov. 11, 1921. On Memorial Day 1921, with 100,000 people in attendance, Chief Plenty Coups raised his arms to the sky and bestowed upon the Unknown Soldier the highest honor of the Native Americans: the war bonnet and coups stick. Photo courtesy of Department of Defense.
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Today
This legacy continues today with the brave Soldiers who have served and continue to serve at home and abroad. To this day, 29 Native American Soldiers have earned the Medal of Honor for their courage and devotion to our nation. The nation is proud of the lasting contributions Native Americans continue to make as Soldiers, civilians, veterans and family members in professions that will benefit the nation and Army for many years to come.
