As part of the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) celebration of National American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month, the Office of Tribal Affairs wants to honor military service members from the Nine Tribes of Oregon and throughout Indian Country.
American Indians and Alaska Natives have served in the U.S. military in every major conflict for more than 200 years. From the battlefields of the Revolutionary War, to the beaches of Normandy on D-Day to the front lines of today, American Indians and Alaska Native service members have defended this country for centuries.
It is estimated up to a quarter of adult American Indian men served in World War I. During World War II, 44,000 served, with another 800 American Indian women worked in various capacities. Some 10,000 served in Korea and approximately 42,000 in Vietnam.
The rich contributions of the American Indian code talkers during World War II have been chronicled in recent years. The fact that their codes were never broken is witness to the power of Native language that was available to those who spoke it then.
American Indian and Alaska Natives continue to serve at a higher rate in proportion to their population than any other racial or ethnic group. While their reasons for serving are as diverse as their Tribal affiliations, many cite their desire to follow in the footsteps of family members, as well as the cultural value placed on patriotism, duty, and warrior traditions within their communities. Tribes throughout Indian Country hold their veterans in high regard, praising them and honoring them through ceremonies and honoring events.
On behalf of the communities we support in the Office of Tribal Affairs, the We Are Here Oregon Natives Employees (WAHONE) resource group, and all Native and non-Native veterans now working throughout ODHS, We thank you, we honor and respect your sacrifices, and we represent your legacy with Native pride.
The ODHS WAHONE Employee Resource Group exists to recruit and retain Native employees and improve the delivery of human services to Native clients, families, and communities.
The Office of Tribal Affairs works with all five ODHS programs to create and provide Tribally appropriate programming, services, policies, and support. For more information visit our website.
Thank You
Adam Becenti (Dine), Director, Office of Tribal Affairs
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