"The story of America's quest for freedom is inscribed on her history in the blood of her patriots." - Randy Vader
Hi Myrna,
One thing that the Quote above neglects to mention is that Patriotism knows no skin color. The blood that flows for Freedom flows Red, regardless of whether the Patriot may be Caucasian, African American, or Native American.
For over 200 years, Native Americans have fought and died alongside their fellow Americans to bring Freedom to all of those who call this magnificent country Home.
It is estimated that more than 12,000 American Indians served in the United States military in World War I. Approximately 600 Oklahoma Indians, mostly Chotaw and Cherokee, were assigned to the 142nd Infantry of the 36th Texas-Oklahoma National Guard Division. The 142nd saw action in France and its soldiers were widely recognized for their contributions in battle. Four men from this unit were awarded the Croix de Guerre, while others received the Church War Cross for gallantry.
The outbreak of World War II brought American Indians warriors back to the battlefield in defense of their homeland. Although now eligible for the draft by virtue of the Snyder Act, which gave citizenship to American Indians in 1924, conscription alone does not account for the disproportionate number of Indians who joined the armed services. More than 44,000 American Indians, out of a total Native American population of less than 350,000, served with distinction between 1941 and 1945 in both European and Pacific theaters of war. Native American men and women on the home front also showed an intense desire to serve their country, and were an integral part of the war effort. More than 40,000 Indian people left their reservations to work in ordnance depots, factories, and other war industries. American Indians also invested more than $50 million in war bonds, and contributed generously to the Red Cross and the Army and Navy Relief societies.
Battle-experienced American Indian troops from World War II were joined by newly recruited Native Americans to fight Communist aggression during the Korean conflict. The Native American's strong sense of patriotism and courage emerged once again during the Vietnam era. More than 42,000 Native Americans, more than 90 percent of them volunteers, fought in Vietnam. Native American contributions in United States military combat continued in the 1980s and 1990s as they saw duty in Grenada, Panama, Somalia, and the Persian Gulf. For more details, please click here Native American Contributions.
In the 20th century, five Native Americans were among those soldiers to be distinguished by receiving the United States' highest military honor: the Medal of Honor. Given for military heroism "above and beyond the call of duty," these warriors exhibited extraordinary bravery in the face of the enemy and, in two cases, made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. For their stories, please click here American Indian Medal of Honor Winners.
((youtube id="1BM9KuoPK-M"))((/youtube))
On this special Day of Remembrance, may we honor all the Brave Men & Women, whether they be White, Black, or Brown, who fought and the many who died, that we might Live Free.
God Bless You My Dear Friend,
Phil