Honoring the Valor of Native American Code Talkers in WWI and WWII

Native American Code Talkers from several tribal nations, including the Hopi, Comanche, Choctaw, Creek, Chippewa, Meskwaki, and Lakota, played a critical role in securing victory during WWI and WWII by using their native languages to devise an unbreakable military code.

The legacy of the Native American Code Talkers is one of extraordinary bravery and ingenuity. These Marines, representing various tribes, used their languages to create codes that the enemy could not crack. Their efforts were instrumental in several key victories, particularly during World War I and World War II. Yet, their contributions are often overlooked in the annals of history.

The concept of using Native American languages in warfare began in World War I with the Choctaw Code Talkers. These 18 men, 16 from the 142nd Infantry Regiment and two from the 143rd, were pivotal in coordinating an artillery attack that took the Germans by surprise. This unexpected assault resulted in a much-needed victory for the 36th Infantry Division. The success of the Choctaw Code Talkers laid the groundwork for the broader use of Native American languages in military communications.

When the United States entered World War I in 1917, 12,000 Native Americans volunteered for military service, despite the fact that one-third of the Native population was not yet recognized as American citizens by the government.

During World War II, the role of Code Talkers expanded significantly. About 420 Navajo Marines served as Code Talkers, developing a complex and unbreakable code that was used extensively in the Pacific Theater. They were not alone; Code Talkers from other tribes, including the Hopi, Comanche, Creek, Chippewa, Meskwaki, and Lakota, also made significant contributions. These Native American soldiers were crucial in several successful military operations, ensuring that sensitive information could be communicated securely and quickly.

This motivation carried forward through history, with an estimated 3,503 Native soldiers fighting in the Civil War, demonstrating a long-standing tradition of Native American service in the U.S. military. When the United States entered World War I in 1917, more than 12,000 Native Americans volunteered for military service, even though one-third of the Native population was not yet recognized as American citizens by the government. This proud tradition of service has continued in every major U.S. military conflict since then.

Today, more than 31,000 American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian service members are on active duty. As of 2017, over 140,000 veterans identify as American Indian or Alaska Native. Since 9/11, nearly 19 percent of Indigenous Peoples in the United States have served in the armed forces, compared to an average of 14 percent among all other ethnicities.

The courage and patriotism of the Native American Code Talkers are a testament to the resilience and strength of their communities. These soldiers contributed to the victories in WWI and WWII and helped shape American history. As we honor their service, we must share their stories, ensuring that the bravery of the Hopi, Comanche, Choctaw, Creek, Chippewa, Meskwaki, Lakota, and Navajo Code Talkers is never forgotten. Their legacy stands as a powerful reminder of the vital role Native Americans have played in defending our nation, a role they continue to fulfill with distinction today.

Cover image: Choctaw Nation Code Talkers. Photo from Choctaw Code Talkers Association.