Governor Bill AnoatubbyRecalling our warrior tradition appropriate on Veterans Day
Two dates important to Indians, and all Americans, occur in November.
Americans, and people around the world, will remember and honor our veterans on November 11, Veterans Day. Originally called Armistice Day or Remembrance Day, November 11 was designated in 1919 by President Woodrow Wilson as the day we honor our veterans. The date coincided with the Nov. 11, 1918 Armistice that ended World War I.
In November we also celebrate our culture during National American Indian Heritage Month. This recognition was established in November 2001 by President George W. Bush.
We celebrate our Indian heritage and also honor our veterans during November.
Indian people have historically participated in the American military at much higher levels than other groups in our society.
Indian warriors were, of course, a very important part of the American Revolutionary War, the War of 1812 and the War Between the States (Civil War). In the days of the American Revolution, Indian brigades were vital to the success of the new country and the established Indian nations were recognized for their significance, and their sovereign status, specifically in the U.S. Constitution.
With the outbreak of World War I and America’s entrance into the war in 1917, thousands of Indians volunteered for duty. Remember, this was in the days before many Indian people were even granted citizenship in the U.S. It is estimated over 12,000 Indian soldiers served in World War I, a huge number given the very small total Indian population at that time.
Over 600 Oklahoma Indians served with the 142nd Infantry, 36th National Guard Division in France. The men saw heavy combat and were celebrated for their “enthusiasm for the battle.” Four Indian men received France’s highest military honor, the Croix de Guerre.
In World War II, Indians once again served in high numbers. Over 44,000 Indians out of a total population of about 350,000 served. And this time, Indian women were serving as well. A number of female Chickasaw veterans of World War II served with great distinction.
Indian men and women served with honor in Korea and Vietnam, and it should be noted that over 90 percent of those Indian veterans were volunteers.
Our warrior tradition is an important part of our history, our heritage. Indian nations had to develop strong defenses in order to protect their homes, their people and their lands. The warrior ethos is deeply ingrained in our people, and that attribute has served our country very, very well.
It is estimated there are approximately 190,000 living Indian veterans. During this Veterans Day, and this National American Indian Heritage Month, it is fitting we honor our veterans, and our cherished heritage that is such an important part of our survival, and our success.
In President Bush’s proclamation designating November National American Indian Heritage Month, he noted that the American Founding Fathers has chosen “E Pluribus Unum” the new country’s national motto. This well-known Latin phrase means “Out of Many, One.”
We are rightly proud of our heritage and our history as Chickasaws, and as Americans. Indian men and women have been highly prized in the military for their dedication, loyalty and “enthusiasm for the battle.” We remember those veterans who have served, and have died. And we honor our living veterans who are a testament to service and love of country.
