As we honor both Native American Heritage Month and Veterans Day this November, we are reminded that the story of America is woven from many chapters of bravery and belonging. Among them are the legacies of Native American heroes whose courage has shaped the nation's history as they stood in defense of a land that is home to all of us. They saved countless lives, carried on traditions that inspire unity, and demonstrated an unwavering spirit in the face of fear and danger. This month, and always, we honor their sacrifices, strength, and resilience by sharing some of their stories.
Lillian Lujan was a highly decorated Navajo veteran who was born in Arizona in 1918 to the Ashiihnii (Salt People) clan and the Tabaaha (Water Edge People) clan. She served in World War II as the Women’s Army Corps Sergeant and received the Good Conduct Medal, the Victory Ribbon, the American Theater Campaign Medal, and the WAC Ribbon. She is a perfect example of bravery, amongst the many other also courageous Native women who have served in the military. In choosing to serve, Lilian stood at the crossroads of identity and duty due to the racial and gender discrimination prevalent during that time, and she (like many other Native American women military members) chose to support the community and the greater good of all people by facing those challenges with unwavering confidence. She passed peacefully at the age of 104 and the Navajo Nation celebrates her story, along with the story of other Navajo women veterans, by recognizing the first day of Spring as a day to honor Navajo Women Warriors.
When people think of Native Americans in military service, the Navajo Code Talkers usually come to mind. Using the Navajo language, they developed a code so intricate that many cryptographers could not decipher it, therefore directly impacting the outcome of World War II. But the story of many of those Code Talkers, including Carl Gorman, is more than just about wars. Mr. Gorman was also a painter, a teacher, and a devoted keeper of his people’s history and cultural traditions. Mr. Gorman also worked hard to bring communities of different groups of people together, teaching his greatest lesson of all about unity.
Lori Ann Piestewa served in the military during the Iraq War and is honored as the first Native American female service member to pass away during combat in 2003. She served during a time when women weren’t allowed to be a part of ground combat, but unfortunately, her convoy was ambushed so she made a sacrifice that would save the lives of her friends and comrades. She is remembered for her strength of character and her lasting impact on the changing perspective of women’s roles in military service. She paved the way for women of the future to wear the uniform and have equal opportunities to be a part of combat missions and serve the country.
Honoring Veterans Day with American West Jewelry
Here at American West Jewelry, we embrace the history and significance of all cultures that shaped the Southwest. We honor the legacy of those who have protected the place we call home and our hearts are with the families of all the veterans who have given the ultimate sacrifice for the greater good. We choose to honor this day by spotlighting famous Native American veterans who have walked the line between two worlds and found resolve in a meaningful way of life that serves everybody.